Spend time in our bars - but not behind them

A message from Merseyside Police ahead of the weekend.

Working alongside Marketing Liverpool and other partners, we’re continuing to remind people to stay safe and look out for each other this weekend, while enjoying all that the city has to offer.

In recent weeks, the number of visitors to the city centre has increased as, since the easing of covid restrictions, people have been able to enjoy our excellent nightlife, visit the city for our museums and galleries and even celebrate their stag and hen parties.

We’re expecting another busy weekend and due to this, and a number of serious incidents of violence and hate crime in recent weeks, police presence continues to be stepped up in areas where people are expected to visit bars and clubs.

There will, as always, be a 24-hour response across Liverpool City Centre and officers will be visible to provide reassurance and help ensure everyone has a safe night out.

Travel Safe officers will also be working with our partners such as British Transport Police to help make sure that everyone gets to and from town easily. Our Citywatch partners will also be keeping a close eye to keep people safe, via CCTV across the city.

Speaking ahead of the weekend, Chris Brown, Director of Marketing Liverpool, said: “It’s such a huge relief to see our nightlife back and booming, with thousands of people coming out to enjoy themselves every weekend. In fact, there has been a 40% rise in footfall between 1-4am compared to pre-pandemic, which has put more pressure on infrastructure such as taxis and fast food shops. Liverpool remains a very safe night out, but having got these freedoms back, it’s really important that everyone respects this and behaves responsibly for the benefit of all.”

Liverpool Community Policing Superintendent Diane Pownall added: “It’s heartening to see so many people coming back to enjoy Liverpool in recent weeks, which has provided a timely boost to people’s lives, businesses and the whole city. We want those who live, work and visit Liverpool to embrace all of the great facilities on offer, while keeping safe and drinking sensibly.

“What we don’t want is for visitors to this great city to have to face the prospect of falling victim to such acts of violence - or even witnessing them - while enjoying a night out. We won’t tolerate any incidents of violence, hate crime or anti-social behaviour. It is also worth remembering that people live and work in the city centre and come in for shopping and with their families, so be mindful of others.

“Despite recent incidents, Liverpool remains one of the safest cities in the UK to enjoy a night out and is awarded Purple Flag status every year. When you consider that around 100,000 people flock to the city on the average Saturday night, the number of incidents are relatively low and you are far more likely to enjoy a safe and enjoyable night out than witness or experience a crime.

“We are determined to help keep it that way, and we’ll be helped in our efforts as ever by bar staff, door security, licensed premises owners and other agencies, who all play a key role in maintaining the great reputation of the city.

“Before enjoying a day or night out in bars and clubs, remember that around half of all violent crimes committed are alcohol related. We want people to ask themselves whether they want to have their night ended early because they are refused entry to a pub or bar having consumed too much alcohol too early, or they find themselves arrested or injured. Drink sensibly and look out for your friends.

“Many venues are likely to be busy this weekend, so you may need to plan ahead and think about where you’re going and how you’re getting home. If you are having a drink, leave the car at home and take a taxi or public transport – don’t risk your life and those of others by drink driving.

“Finally, but importantly, please remember that Covid still poses a risk to our communities, so if you’re feeling unwell, stay at home and get tested rather than risk spreading the virus.

“Wherever you choose to enjoy our nightlife this weekend, remember to be respectful of others, stay safe and make your night out one to remember.”

Report any crime by calling 101 or via our website: www.merseysidepolice.uk. Don’t forget, reports that are not urgent can be made via @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook.

Always call 999 in an emergency.