POLICE have explained why they have increased their night-time presence in a North Yorkshire town.

North Yorkshire Police has stepped-up patrols in Scarborough to keep revellers safe and secure when out on Christmas nights out.

The force are working with management and staff at licensed premises in and around the town centre, with officers visiting venues to ensure key safety measures remain in place.

A spokesperson for the force said: “(This work) includes the use of a Passive Drug Detection Dog to check inside pubs and bars, and in the town centre itself, to identify those in possession of a range of drugs including cannabis, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and amphetamine.

“Also, recognising and reporting concerning behaviours indicating harassment and abuse of women and girls.”

The spokesperson added that the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme is being promoted.

Under the scheme people who feel unsafe on a date and need assistance to discreetly move away from the person in question are encouraged to ask venue staff to speak to ‘Angela.’

This code-phrase will indicate to staff that they require help with their situation and a trained member of staff will then look to support and assist them.

PC Kirsty Masters, the Beat Manager for Scarborough Town Centre, said: “We want everyone to feel safe while enjoying a night out in Scarborough during the Christmas season and beyond.

“This includes at the start of the night to when people are walking home or using taxis.

“Our policing teams, together with Scarborough Borough Council’s community safety and licensing officers, are actively engaging with the licensees, door staff, staff members and customers about the importance of providing a safe environment.

“This includes tackling drugs-related crime and raising awareness about the sickening behaviour of a small minority of men who target women and girls.

“We’re doing all we can to root the offenders out and raise awareness about this deeply concerning issue.

“We’re determined to make our town safer and provide real reassurance for women and girls who should not have to live in fear. We all have a part to play to make a change for the better.”

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