WEST DORSET: ‘Don’t put yourself at risk’ – that’s the message from Dorset Police this Christmas as they issue advice on how to stay safe and enjoy the festive season.

Police chiefs have issued the following safety advice to keep people throughout West Dorset and their loved ones safe over the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Key safety priorities during the festive season include ensuring people drink responsibly, preventing people becoming victims of crime during their Christmas shopping and issuing fraud advice for online shopping.

A senior officer from Dorset Police has warned people to drink responsibly over Christmas, or they could face becoming a victim of crime.

In Dorset County Division, which includes all the towns and villages of West Dorset, the number of reported violent incidents that include rape, sexual assault and general assault, traditionally rise over the festive period - and are in the majority alcohol-related.

In the run up to Christmas and New Year in West Dorset, overall violent crime increases on average by 13 per cent, compared with the two preceding weeks.

Figures taken from the lead up to Christmas also suggests a small rise in the number of sexual offences.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Cregg, head of Public Protection Unit, is urging revellers to enjoy their festive celebrations but to stay safe. They are advised against over-indulging in alcohol and so preventing themselves from making proper decisions about their safety.

It is hoped the advice will also prevent people putting themselves in vulnerable and dangerous situations.

DCI Dave Cregg said: “Dorset is a very safe place but the chances of becoming a victim of crime increase when you have been drinking alcohol.

“The vast majority of people will enjoy a drink safely this Christmas, without risk, but those who over-indulge are often unable to make sound decisions, therefore end up putting themselves and others at risk.

“I also have a message to anyone who may want to take advantage of someone who is under the influence of drink. If that person is not able to make proper decisions about whether they consent to sex, then you might find yourself facing a charge of rape.

“The message is to enjoy the holiday period, but do it responsibly. Please don’t put yourself in a position where something happens to you that may affect the rest of your life.”

The Bridport Safer Neighbourhood Team will be on hand to give crime prevention advice to the public in Bridport town hall on December 13 and Bucky Doo Square on January 3.