ASSAULTS in York city centre have fallen thanks to a summer police campaign warning of the perils of binge drinking.

High-visibility police patrols have been out in force for 13 consecutive weekends as part of a three-month campaign tackling alcohol abuse and related problems.

Operation STYLE – Safe Time in York, Let’s Enjoy – run by Safer York Partnership, was launched on June 4 aimed at reducing violence and disorder associated in the city centre.

The campaign saw:

• A 13 per cent reduction in assault – which police hailed an “excellent” result due to it coinciding with the World Cup.

• Police issuing 71 Section 27 Orders, forcing individuals to leave the city centre if officers believed their presence will lead to alcohol-related crime or disorder.

• 60 people arrested in relation to causing anti-social behaviour or alcohol-related disorder.

• 474 licensed premises visited.

• More than 6,000 free bottles of water handed out to help with rehydration.

YorMed, who provided an emergency ambulance and medical support, treated 35 casualties ranging from blistered feet to panic attacks and suspected drink spiking.

The assistance of YorMed reduced the need to call out NHS ambulances and provided on-site medical assistance that prevented a number of individuals from ending up in A&E.

The operation involved volunteers, additional police and Street Angels, who were on hand to provide advice and support to those who find themselves vulnerable as a result of drinking too much.

Jane Mowat, director of Safer York Partnership, said: “This is the third year running that we have run summer campaign against violence and disorder.

“To achieve year on year reductions has been excellent and demonstrates the value of a joined up approach by City of York Council and the police.”