Plymouth welcomes freshers safely

Over 100 premises over Freshers’ Week to make sure the new influx of students in Plymouth had fun safely.

A joint operation involving the Council's Public Protection Service, Devon and Cornwall Police and Devon and Somerset Fire Rescue Service checked out how staff and owners managed their premises during this busy period.

Freshers’ Week – which now covers two weeks – sees a significant increase in the number of young people out late and buying drinks and the operation was a chance to see how well businesses deal with customers that maybe underage but still trying to get served alcohol.

The operation was part of a ‘week of action’ hosted by the Violent Crime and Alcohol Harm Reduction Group and Association of Chief Police Officers and supported by the Council’s commitment to improve safety and tackle noise and anti-social behaviour.

The Council’s Public Protection Service also carried out a day and night-time ‘plying for hire’ test purchase operation to see whether any licensed private hire drivers were tempted to take passengers who had not booked their journey.

They found that four out of 21 drivers were prepared to do this – despite not being allowed to under the condition of their licence. Only hackney carriage (taxis) drivers can pick up a fare without being pre-booked. These four drivers are now the subject of further investigation.

The operation looked at a whole range of issues including under-age sales, minors in premises, drunk and disorderly behaviour as well as fire safety issues and compliance with licensing conditions, such as for nuisance and noise.

Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councillor Brian Vincent said: “We want people – particularly students who will be part of this city for a number of years – to have a great safe night out.

“Apart from one or two disappointments, the operation showed that the licensed trade is taking its responsibilities to its customers and the city as a whole seriously.”

He added: “We would like to remind people to think about how they get home. All licensed operators advertise and in some pubs and clubs freephones are provided. Passengers, particularly young women should not get into any private hire vehicle for a pre-booked journey unless the driver can tell you your name and destination.

“Only hackney carriages (London cabs) can ply for hire and pick up passengers without a booking. If in doubt, check the licensed plate attached to the rear of the vehicle and drivers badge.”

Following the visits, officers of Devon & Cornwall Police and the Council will continue to work closely with the licensing trade to offer help and assistance.

One such scheme called No Proof Of Age – No Sale (NPOANS), offers a training toolkit to help premises that sell age-restricted products keep within the law by offering practical help and guidance. For further information on NPOANS and other guidance on underage sales, call the Public Protection Service on 01752 304141.