Christmas party-goers heading to Cardiff on the train for a night of festive celebration are being urged not to over-indulge by British Transport Police.
The force, which oversees policing on Britain’s railways, has launched a Christmas campaign warning revellers that drink-fuelled antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated.
Passengers across the capital will notice an increase in high-profile police patrols on trains and at stations to help make sure revellers reach their festive celebrations and get home again safely.
Inspector Mike Jones, officer in charge at BTP Cardiff, said: “I would encourage people to come in to Cardiff during the festive season and experience everything this great city has to offer – particularly during this time of the year – and we look forward to welcoming visitors into the city.
“More people than ever before are using train services to travel into Cardiff, and this is expected to increase as the festivities and office parties get into full swing.
“There are many people who may not use the rail network as a mode of transport other than at this time of the year, so make sure you have your travel arrangements in place and particularly know the time of your last train home. Also, look out for your friends and colleagues during the evening.
“While we want everyone to enjoy themselves, we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour or any form of aggression towards rail staff who work hard to keep services running.
“We understand that at this time of year, people will want to let their hair down and, as a result, may consume a bit more alcohol than they normally would.
“However, those that do overstep the mark can rest assured that we will not hesitate to take action in tackling anti-social behaviour and drunkenness.
“I’d like to make it very clear that anyone who is not fit to travel, either through being too drunk or by acting aggressively, will be turned away and could find themselves in front of the court.”
Officers from BTP’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams will be supporting the Christmas operation by helping partygoers get home safely.
Community Support Officers – including officers funded by the Welsh Government – will be out and about over the coming weeks handing out bookmarks encouraging people to plan ahead prior to a night out. Each bookmark includes a tear-off card to be kept in wallets and purses which contains National Rail enquiry details as well as a space for people to note their last train home and an emergency taxi number.
Minister for Local Government and Communities Carl Sargeant said: “The Welsh Government recognise the vital role that Community Support Officers play in tackling anti-social behaviour and crime on our railways.
“As part of our commitment to fund an additional 500 CSOs across Wales, 18 officers have already been deployed to work alongside British Transport Police. They will be working throughout the festive season, providing enhanced visibility and reassuring travellers that the rail network is a safe environment.”
The campaign is also supported by a QR code and anyone who scans the code could be in with a chance of winning an exclusive BTP experience.
Insp Jones added: “We will have officers out on high-visibility patrols, on trains and at stations. Although the operation will run throughout each day until Christmas Eve, we will be paying particular attention to late-night services to and from Cardiff.
“I’m sure our officers’ presence over the festive period will be a reassuring sight for passengers and staff. We want everyone to have a happy and safe Christmas, and will do everything we can to make this happen.”