Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Lancaster and Morecambe Police have been running a dedicated Licensing and Neighbourhood Policing operation throughout the festive period to ensure people can enjoy a safe night out. During the national Winter of Action, the teams have been promoting responsible trading and tackling crime and disorder in pubs and clubs.
As part of the activity, officers have worked closely with the Police Licensing Team and partner agencies to carry out a range of proactive activities, including:
Test Purchases: 23 off-licensed premises were tested using an underage volunteer attempting to buy alcohol and vapes. All passed, demonstrating strong compliance.
‘Ask for Angela’ Checks: Plain-clothes officers visited 40 pubs to ensure the safeguarding scheme was being used correctly. All venues passed, reinforcing efforts to keep women safe as part of the national 16 Days of Action campaign against Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).
Premises Visits: Over 150 pubs and clubs have been visited alongside council representatives and Pub Watch schemes, with positive feedback from the public who feel reassured and safe.
On one of the premises visits, one individual became abusive towards officers and was subsequently arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly in a public place.
PC Andrew Taylor said: “During this busy time, we want the public to socialise in Lancaster and Morecambe, safely. By employing various tactics as a part of this wider nighttime economy operation, we can ensure that licensed premises are trading responsibly and helping us to create a safe environment for all to enjoy.
“Working closely with our partners and local venues has been key to ensuring everyone can enjoy a safe and welcoming environment throughout the festive period. The strong compliance we’ve seen from premises shows a real commitment to responsible trading and safeguarding the public. We’ll continue to support businesses and take action where necessary to keep our communities safe.”
Safer Streets Winter of Action is a government initiative which sees police and partners work together to tackle retail crime, organised crime, street crime, antisocial behaviour, and nighttime economy offences. Running from 1 December to the end of January, it will feature extra high-visibility patrols in busy town centres, stronger partnerships, and firm enforcement.
