Launch of Safer Streets festive initiative

The Moray Community Safety Partnership will again be running its annual Safer Streets initiative over the upcoming festive season.

The focus, as always, will be on helping people stay safe while they enjoy the seasonal celebrations.

The message from the partnership to those heading out for festive events remains the same – have fun but look after yourselves, your friends and your property.

Funding has again been secured to provide taxi marshals in Elgin town centre at peak times along with first aiders to help those with minor injuries and lessen the burden on accident and emergency services.

Police Scotland will also be carrying out additional foot patrols at the busiest times of night to help keep people safe and the Elgin Street Pastors will also be on hand to help when needed.

The local licensed trade is helping to promote the Safer Streets campaign by displaying flyers and issuing cards with useful information and contact numbers.

Moray Council’s community safety officer, Willie Findlay, said: “The community safety partnership is delighted to help provide a safe environment for people to enjoy their festive activities.

“By doing so we hope to attract people to the centre of Elgin and so increase the night-time economy. I would also remind people to always plan their return journey home in advance and never to leave drinks unattended.”

Police Scotland’s local area commander for Moray, Chief Inspector Stewart Mackie, said: "During the festive period our town centres and licenced premises tend to be significantly busier than usual.

“We are keen to encourage everyone to enjoy this time of year but ask that they do so in a responsible manner.Please plan your evening, ensure you have a plan to get home safely, drink responsibly and look after your friends whilst out.”

Moray Council area stretches from Tomintoul in the south to the shores of the Moray Firth, from Keith in the east to Forres in the west. The council and its 4,500 employees respond to the needs of 95,510 residents in this beautiful part of Scotland, which nestles between Aberdeenshire and the Highlands.

Famous for its colony of dolphins, fabulous beaches and more malt whisky distilleries than any where else in Scotland, Moray is a thriving area and a great place to live.

Headquartered in  Elgin, the administrative capital of Moray.