A CHRISTMAS message for isleofman.com readers from Inspector Phil Shimmin of the Douglas Neighbourhood Policing Team:

"Police in Douglas are continuing their preparations for a busy Christmas period in the town.

"As usual there will be an increase in people visiting Douglas to go shopping or to socialise and local officers are focused on ensuring that everyone has a safe and prosperous Christmas.
 
"There's much to enjoy in Douglas at this time of year. In view of the increased number of shoppers and revellers extra police officers will be deployed in key locations at key times with the objective of keeping everyone safe.  
 
"Officers have been visiting shops and businesses to provide advice on how to avoid becoming victims of crime. 

"The local Shop Watch scheme, which is a partnership between traders and the constabulary, ensures that anyone intent on shoplifting is much more likely to be caught and prosecuted. 

"Additional officers will be patrolling the town centre both to prevent offences and to detect any offences reported.       
 
"I would appeal to people who have been drinking not to get behind the wheel of their car as the chances of being caught are high. 

"The Christmas drink drive campaign will see additional patrols out and about at key times.

"In recent years there have been plenty of people who haven’t heeded this advice and have ended up losing their driving licence, their jobs and their liberty.  
 
"We will also be working closely with licensed premises in order to encourage responsible drinking.

"Those who drink to excess and cause problems are highly likely to be arrested and can expect to face a court where they will be held to account for their behaviour. 

"This may result in a variety of punishments, including imprisonment, and bans from licensed premises.  
 
"On behalf of all of my team I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas."