On Saturday 31 August 2019 South Ayrshire Police carried out high profile patrols in Ayr and Prestwick focusing on licensed premises.
The operation was supported by locality policing teams as well as late and night shift officers.
Officers were deployed on foot and mobile patrol, and in Ayr were assisted by taxi marshals, street pastors and St Andrews First Aid staff.
Officers engaged with the public and visited a number of licensed premises where they spoke to customers, venue staff and licence holders.
Three people were reported for alleged drugs offences, with two being found allegedly in possession of drugs within a licensed premise, the other immediately outside.
A number of people were warned regarding their conduct within and outside licensed premises and advice was given to staff to ensure that patrons could enjoy a night out in a safe environment. A male was removed from a licensed premise after being found to be under 18.
Chief Inspector Brian Anderson, Area Commander for South Ayrshire Police, who led the operation, said “South Ayrshire is a popular place for people to come to enjoy a night out, with many choosing Ayr and Prestwick at weekends. Last night, local officers were deployed to ensure that everyone enjoyed a safe night out and to make sure that staff and licence holders were operating their premises safely and in line with licensing legislation" "A small number of issues were identified at or within some premises. Further enquiries are ongoing and discussion will take place with the Licensing Department at South Ayrshire Council. The public can expect to see officers on patrol around licensed premises in South Ayrshire and should be reassured by their presence”.
