16 December 2008

Issued in association with Milton Keynes Community Safety Partnership

Free bottles of water will be provided to revellers around the Theatre District and Xscape building in Milton Keynes on Friday night (19 December) to help reduce alcohol-related incidents.

A team from Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, Milton Keynes Council's Safer Communities Unit, MK Primary Care Trust and Street Ministers will be handing them out from their base outside a mobile exhibition unit from 9.30pm to 1.30am.

Neil Atkinson of the Community Safety Partnership said: “The idea is to approach drinking safely, sensibly and socially and to promote responsible drinking by encouraging individuals to pace themselves, alternate alcohol with soft drinks and rehydrate regularly.

“We want to encourage a calm atmosphere and send out the right messages to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe night out."

Over the years, the strength of popular drinks has increased and glass sizes have grown – many people are unaware that a large glass of festive wine can contain as many as three units, and a bottle of wine may now contain nine units instead of six.

The Community Safety Partnership team will also work with local venues to promote the “We Serve Drinks Not Drunks” T-shirt and poster campaign, to highlight that people could be refused service if they are considered to be so drunk that they are vulnerable, aggressive, violent or at risk of harm.

Neil added: “Many people don’t realise that although it can be a difficult decision to refuse someone service, bar staff could be fined £80 and possibly lose their job if the authorities consider that they are continuing to serve alcohol to someone who is already very drunk.

"The campaign aims to support bar staff and to raise awareness of the part the public can play in reducing alcohol related incidents.

“We hope everyone enjoys a safe, sensible and social festive season. Have a great night out, know your limits and stay safe after eight.”