Safer Streets returns to Elgin

FESTIVE revellers can enjoy their Christmas night out with the return of Safer Streets from Friday 14 December.

First aiders, Elgin Street Pastors, increased police patrols and taxi marshalls will all take to the streets of Elgin to make sure that partygoers make the most of their night out and get home safely at the end of the night.

Taxi marshalls from Saltaire Security make their return, first aid will be provided by Banffshire Partnership and North East Police Division will have an increased presence as part of the initiative by Moray’s Community Safety Partnership.

Moray Council’s Community Safety Officer, Willie Findlay, says the response in previous years to Safer Streets has been nothing but positive.

“We’ve had good feedback in the past, people are grateful that we’re around to help if needed, making sure that everyone can enjoy themselves in a safe environment, and get home ok at the end of the night.

“It’s great to see our partners all pulling together to allow everyone to make the most of their night out at what’s one of the busiest months in the year for partygoers.”

Moira from 2-4-7 taxis said all the drivers in the company have been first aid trained.

“We’re also fundraising for defibrillators for all of our vehicles as well, we’ve already got one but we want to make sure they’re available in all our taxis.”

Chief Inspector Maggie Miller reiterated that safety shouldn’t be an afterthought.

“Make sure you’ve planned how to get home before you go out, and please take care of family, friends or colleagues who you’re out celebrating with, to make sure everyone gets home safely after a great night out.”

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. Nestling between Aberdeenshire and the Highlands, Moray stretches from Tomintoul in the south to the shores of the Moray Firth, from Keith in the east to Brodie Castle in the west.