Police gearing up for Sheffield to be as busy as New Year's Eve when pubs reopen

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After a three month coronavirus closure, pubs are allowed to trade again from tomorrow, with police chiefs prepared for demand to be as high as it normally is on New Year’s Eve – traditionally one of the busiest days of the year.

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Extra police officers have been drafted in to work over the weekend, with bosses having already warned that violence and disorder will not be tolerated and that arrests will be made.

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Officers are also expected to visit pubs to monitor behaviour and to check that guidelines are being adhered to.

Police chiefs expecting a ‘surge in demand across 999 and 101 lines this weekend’ are urging people to think twice before they dial.

The force said: “Our Atlas Court contact centre has received an unprecedented amount of calls throughout the Covid-19 health crisis, with this likely to increase further this weekend as bars, pubs and restaurants start to reopen for business.

“Before the weekend gets underway, we want to remind everyone of how best to contact us. It’s important that people who need us in a genuine emergency, and those who suffer from, or feel at risk of violence, can reach us quickly.”

Temporary Head of Communications, Superintendent Becs Horsfall said: “Obviously this weekend is a significant milestone in the easing of lockdown restrictions, and people understandably want to go out and celebrate.

“Our call handlers are expecting to be busy, and we are likely to see demand similar to that of New Year’s Eve. “Before you call us, please consider whether you really need a police response.

“Our call handlers do a fantastic job of offering advice and guidance, but local authorities and public transport providers will have useful information on their websites and social media channels which can probably answer a lot of general queries.”

Only call 999 in an emergency and 101 if a police response is needed.

Non-urgent crime reports can be made via the South Yorkshire Police website.