FESTIVE revellers across Evesham and Pershore have been praised by police after the number of arrests over the Christmas and New Year period fell.
A total of 16 people were arrested between December 20 and January 1, nine lower than last year but slightly more than the 12 arrested two years ago.
Worcestershire as a whole received more than 100 fewer arrests this time around as of the figures between 2012 and 2013, officers made 329 two years ago and just 228 throughout the current festivities.
Police said Operation Christmas Presence, a campaign to tackle drink-fuelled crime, was one of the main reasons behind the steep drop.
The operation, which was described as an ‘excellent scheme’ by West Mercia’s Police and Crime Commissioner Bill
Longmore, was put in place over Christmas and New Year and increased street patrols and provided advice to Vale party-
goers.
Supt Kevin Purcell said: “I am pleased that the number of arrests has fallen in recent years.
“As part of Operation Christmas Presence we increased patrols across Worcestershire and provided advice to the public on staying safe and staying out of trouble.
“The festive period has been successful for West Mercia Police, leading to fewer incidents than previous years.
“We would like to thank the public for heeding our advice and for their behaviour over recent weeks.”
