Police launch festive safety campaign

L-r, Chief Inspector Andy McLean, Amy Welsh (Community Colleague at Asda Galashiels), Lynne Mycock (Asda Galashiels manager) and Superintendent Jim Royan in Asda, Galashiels ahead of the festive campaign.

The campaign, unveiled at the Asda store in Galashiels on Tuesday, will see an increased number of police officers within communities and on the road.

Superintendent Jim Royan, of the Lothians and Borders division’s command team, said: “We want everyone who lives, works and visits this region to enjoy themselves safely and responsibly over the festive season.

“That’s why, in the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing important safety messages with the public to protect our communities from harm”

L-r, Chief Inspector Andy McLean, PC Sandy Blacklock, Councillor Donald Moffat and Superintendent Jim Royan in Asda, Galashiels ahead of the festive campaign.

The campaign will run until Tuesday, January 3, during which time officers will deliver key safety messages with a focus on party safety, house safety, shopping safety and road safety.

Supt Royan added: “I offer my personal reassurance that we’ll do everything in our power to address these issues and deal swiftly with those found to be behaving inappropriately.

“My officers and I will be working hard throughout the period to help ensure everyone has a safe and peaceful Christmas and new year.”

Chief Inspector Andy McLean, local area commander for the Borders, said: “Criminal activity at any time of year is unacceptable, and I can assure the public in the Scottish Borders that we will continue to do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice.

L-r, Chief Inspector Andy McLean and Superintendent Jim Royan in Asda, Galashiels ahead of the festive campaign.

“Falling victim to crime can be extremely distressing, and one of our key safety messages this year is about keeping your home and property safe.

“There are a number of simple steps that can be taken in order to deter criminals such as don’t leave Christmas presents or any other high-alue items in plain view within your home or car.”

“Please also consider removing any surplus cash from your property and instead deposit this into a bank.”

Mid-Berwickshire councillor Donald Moffat, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for community safety, was also in attendance.

He said: “This festive campaign highlights a range of messages, and if we all take this advice, local people and visitors will be able to have an enjoyable, and safe, Christmas.”