Patrols increase for rugby autumn internationals

Police in Blaenau Gwent will be working with local licensed premises over the course of the autumn international rugby games, to help ensure that incidents of crime and disorder are kept to a minimum.

Officers will be increasing their patrols of local pubs and clubs on match days, starting with next Saturday (7th November).

Over the next month, officers will also be visiting local licensed premises and rugby clubs to speak to staff about a number of issues. This includes offering advice about underage drinking, closing times and ensuring sensible drinking.

Checks will also made on door staff to ensure that they are SIA (Security Industry Authority) approved.

Neighbourhood Officers will be patrolling hot-spot areas for underage drinking and confiscating any alcohol that they find. Blaenau Gwent Council’s CCTV unit will also be working closely with officers to help pinpoint any signs of disorder on match days.

Sergeant Angela Burt, from the Blaenau Gwent Neighbourhood Support Unit, said:
“We generally find that the atmosphere in local pubs and clubs is good-natured on match days. It’s important that we work with the local licensed premises to ensure that it stays that way.

We have found in previous years that a minority of people, who drink to excess on these occasions, can go on to commit crime and disorder. This campaign aims to prevent this from happening and to ensure that rugby supporters enjoy their night out and remain safe.”