Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team relaunch Operation Cracker

The Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team has relaunched a Christmas operation to help keep the public and businesses safe from anti-social behaviour and theft.

Operation Cracker started today (Friday) and will see officers conducting high visibility reassurance patrols in popular shopping areas to ensure that there is not a rise in incidents of anti-social behaviour or thefts as the town gets busier.

Officers will also be taking part in plain clothes patrols in the town centre and at other retail premises such as supermarkets. The Neighbourhood and Community Engagement Vehicles will be utilised to ensure that there is a proactive police presence and to help deter any offenders.

The team will also be available to support businesses should any issues arise within their premises as part of a multi-agency approach.

Sergeant Steve Benbow said: "The number of people shopping tends to increase during the Festive Period and we want to ensure that both shoppers and businesses are able to safely enjoy this time.

"It is hoped that an enhanced police presence, both uniformed and in plain clothes, will help catch and deter any potential offenders.

"As in previous years anyone who has concerns about incidents they may see whilst Christmas shopping is encouraged to speak to an officer so that proactive measures can be taken."

Officers will be tweeting during the operation and anyone who wishes to view these can do so by visiting: https://twitter.com/CheltPolice

Crime prevention advice for when you're out and about can be found here: Personal safety: how to stay safe | Gloucestershire Constabulary