POLICE are launching a carrot and stick approach to patrolling the streets of Stamford on weekend nights in a bid to make the town safer.
Over the next three weekends, officers – aided by RAF sniffer dog teams – will be out in force clamping down on drug abuse and underage drinking. They will also offer practical advice to people in pubs and clubs.
The Safer Nights Out initiative is b
eing supported by South Kesteven District Council and the county council's teenage pregnancy team. The aim is to alert people to the dangers of alcohol excess and unprotected sex.
It is hoped the two-pronged approach will make Stamford a "fear-free and fun" place.
Sgt Jane Parks is warning that anyone possessing drugs will be caught by police and RAF sniffer dogs out on the streets.
"It's a real balance of enforcement and education and we want to get that balance right," she said.
Police community support officers and South Kesteven District Council street wardens will also be going out and handing out Safer Night Out packs, which will include devices to stop drinks being spiked, condoms and helpline numbers.
County council teenager pregnancy project leader Carol Goodyear is hoping people will be receptive to the support available.
She said: "The pack provides an excellent opportunity to extend the campaign messages to help prevent unplanned teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections."
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