AS revellers prepare for one of the busiest evenings of the year, Dyfed-Powys Police will be getting set for their own big night out.

Frontline officers, staff, Special Constables and Roads Policing Teams will be out and about across the force, as they expect to see higher than usual numbers of people celebrating the last Friday before Christmas.

While party-goers prep for the night out with new outfits, dancing shoes and pre-drinks, officers will be getting ready to take to the streets their own way.

They will be looking ahead to keep towns and villages free of disorder, visiting pubs and clubs to carry out licensing checks, and conducting drink / drug drive operations on the roads.

And like any big night out, they will be enlisting the help of friends to keep them company. Partners in local authorities will be joining officers to undertake checks on taxis and pubs, volunteer organisations will be handing out flip flops and water to people who might have enjoyed one too many, and bar and door staff will play their part in keeping the festive night out running smoothly.

Colleagues in the ambulance service will also assist with the launch of the Joint Response Unit trial in Pembrokeshire, which will see a paramedic and Special Constable working together to self-select appropriate 999 calls to respond to. The aim is to free police officers at the scene, who would otherwise have to wait for an ambulance to arrive.

For those who choose not to look after themselves, or are determined to cause trouble, there will be a warm welcome at the force’s custody suites – although officers there would prefer not to have too many customers if possible.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Claire Parmenter said: “As you plan and prepare for your events and parties this Christmas, we ask that you have a plan for the important things – the things that’ll keep you and others safe.

“Know your limits. Know how you’re going to get home. Know that you’ll be able to reflect on your big night out for all the right reasons and not because you were carried away in the moment.

“We all hope you have a fantastic Christmas and if you’re out in our towns across the force area, we look forward to seeing you.”