A CHRISTMAS Presence Operation in Worcester has helped reduce crime and disturbance in the city with revellers being praised for their sensible behaviour.

The dispersal order, which is designed to help police deal with disorder and antisocial behaviour, was in place over the weekend before Christmas known as "Mad Saturday" and centred around the area of the city centre known as The Cross, including Angel Street and Angel Place.

The area had been identified as a problem area for antisocial and drunken behaviour and the order meant that people were not allowed to congregate in this area and police had the power to ask people to leave.

Superintendent Kevin Purcell said the weekend was expected to be one of the busiest of the year for pubs and clubs in the city and their main priority was to keep people safe and ensure as many people as possible enjoy their festive night out.

He added that exact figures and results of the police operation were still being analysed, but the increased police presence appeared to have helped most revellers enjoy a safe weekend.

He said: "It was a busy weekend for officers across South Worcestershire and there were some arrests early on for drunken behaviour and assault. On the whole, though, we are extremely grateful to the vast majority of revellers who enjoyed themselves, partied hard and got themselves home safely via taxi or designated driver."

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