SUFFOLK: A new team of police officers have been set up to crack down on crime and disorder outside bars, pubs and nightclubs. The team will focus on nightspots in Ipswich, Lowestoft and Newmarket, providing high visibility policing in these areas.

SUFFOLK: A new team of police officers have been set up to crack down on crime and disorder outside bars, pubs and nightclubs.

The team will focus on nightspots in Ipswich, Lowestoft and Newmarket, providing high visibility policing in these areas.

When the officers are not on patrols they will visit licensed premises, conduct follow up work for investigations and work to prevent further offences.

Gulshan Kayembe Chair of Suffolk Police Authority said: “Suffolk Police Authority was pleased to support the provision of additional funding to help create the Night-Time Economy Team, recognising this area of work was a growing priority.

“The nighttime economy benefits the county by stimulating the regeneration of declining areas, improving facilities, providing employment and providing attractions for local visitors and tourists.

“However, it also creates a challenge for the police by offering more opportunities for people to drink and engage in anti-social behaviour.

“With the introduction of the Night-Time Economy Team and the nighttime economy plan, we hope to discourage anti-social behaviour and alcohol related crime by providing a visible and accessible service. “In turn this will increase people's confidence and make our communities safer.”

Assistant Chief Constable Gary Kitching added: “Suffolk remains a safe place in which to live. “However, there has been a small rise in serious violent crime so we must not be complacent.

“During the course of the next month, we will be issuing advice and highlighting issues so that people can make the right choices to keep themselves safe.

“Our messages are clear: Don't drink and drive, Don't be afraid - report domestic violence, Don't overdo it, friends should stick together and get home safely."