A knife arch to highlight the negative impacts of knife crime, security inspections and a drink drive campaign are all part of the Safer Summer campaign to help people enjoy safer nights out over the Euros.

The Safer North West Leicestershire Partnership’s Safer Summer campaign brings together a number of organisations including North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC), Leicestershire County Council, Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service.

In a campaign that tackles all elements of safety on a night out, Security Industry Authority (SIA) inspections will check the credentials and behaviour of door security staff across the district.

NWLDC has also increased the amount of anti-spiking equipment for bottles and glasses available for people to pick up free from licensed premises in Coalville, Ashby and some surrounding villages.

A knife arch - a walkthrough metal detector aimed at combatting knife crime - will be deployed at undisclosed locations over the summer.

To improve the rapid response available for people on nights out, NWLDC will be providing bleed control kits and training to all key licensed premises in Coalville and Ashby Town centres.

Licensed taxis will also undergo spot checks to ensure that they are safe for customers, and an increase in CCTV hours across the district will be used to expand visual surveillance on streets.

Paul Sanders, Head of Community Services at NWLDC, said:

“It is important that everyone in North West Leicestershire is safe whilst watching the Euros and on any night out in our district.

“To help stay safe, plan your nights ahead, books taxis home in advance, stay with your friends and be aware of the schemes that are on offer such as Ask Angela and the Keep Safe Places.

“We take public safety seriously, and we will be working hard to protect North West Leicestershire’s residents, communities and businesses.”

Sergeant Joe Postlethwaite from North West Leicestershire Neighbourhood Policing Area, said:

“Local officers are taking a pro-active approach to policing during the Safer Summer campaign.

“We understand that people will want to actively support their teams onto victory and celebrate the summer with family and friends.

“Our planned policing activities are designed to enable people to do that, but also focus on matters that can cause serious harm and misery at what should be a time of celebration. Knife crime and drink driving have the ability to ruin lives in an instant and we hope to prevent that from happening.

“We are delighted to work closely alongside valued partners in a joint team effort to enable everyone to enjoy the summer.”

Kate Zamani, the Chair of Pubwatch said:

“The 'Safer Summer' campaign is an essential initiative that ensures our community can safely enjoy the Euros.

“By implementing key measures such as knife arches, enhanced anti-spiking equipment, and rigorous security inspections, this campaign addresses the key aim which is to keep people safe when they are on their night out.

“The collaborative efforts of the Safer North West Leicestershire Partnership, including NWLDC and Leicestershire Police, demonstrate a comprehensive commitment to keeping our community safe while allowing everyone to fully enjoy the festivities.

“Ashby-de-la-Zouch Pubwatch fully supports these efforts and is dedicated to fostering a secure and enjoyable environment for all.”