Christmas safety blitz

POLICE have launched a festive campaign aimed at keeping Oldhamers safe this Christmas.

The “Have Fun, Be Safe” scheme, designed to discourage the public from taking risks, runs throughout December.

Inspector Melita Worswick said: “We will be out in force throughout the festive season to remind the public to think about their own safety by following the simple advice we will be giving out.

“Our main priority is to provide a secure environment so all our visitors, residents and workers can enjoy their time here free from the fear of crime.”

Other schemes include an “Elf information shop” set up by Brook — the young people’s support centre — and backed by police as well as the drug and alcohol service Oasis, at 12 Albion Street, Oldham, until Saturday.

Emma Popay, education outreach director at Brook, said: “Young people over the festive season sometimes take additional risks with their health and indulge in the party atmosphere.

“But we want to ensure youngsters don’t receive any unwanted gifts this year.”

Teenagers will also be given sexual health advice containing condoms, drinks stoppers, and information on local services.

Sharon West is Oldham’s teenage pregnancy co-ordinator.

She said: “There are several key messages we are promoting such as alternating alcohol with soft drinks, making sure people eat before they go out, staying with friends and making sure they take a taxi home.”