Watch: Video shows what police face on a Saturday night in York – ahead of ‘Mad Friday’

Police have released a video showing what they face on a Saturday night in York.

They have timed it to coincide with ‘Mad Friday’ tonight (Friday, 16 December).

It is one of the most popular nights for Christmas celebrations – but also one of the busiest nights for the emergency services due to alcohol-fuelled disruption.

There will be extra patrols on the streets of York and in other towns and cities in North Yorkshire.

The Force Control Room is expecting to receive a 30% increase in 999 and 101 calls compared with demand on an average Friday night.

The video was filmed last Saturday (10 December) – the night of England’s exit from the World Cup at the hands of France.

It follows PC Jess Georgiou on patrol in York city centre. There are confrontations and revellers put in handcuffs – but also officers working to help vulnerable people, and teaming up with other agencies such as the York Rescue Boat volunteers.

‘Know your limits’

Superintendent Fiona Willey is the Silver Commander for Mad Friday’s policing operation.

She said: “We understand that people want to let their hair down and we’re not here to spoil anyone’s fun.

“However, we have a job to do and that’s to keep people safe as well as maintain law and order.

“We’re well-rehearsed at dealing with what’s known as ‘Mad Friday’ and have additional officers and staff in place to provide resilience.

“My plea to people who are heading out on Friday is to plan your night, think about your own safety and know your limits.

“It looks like the temperature will be below sub-zero at night this weekend, so please factor this into planning your night. Please try and remain in a group of people and don’t leave friends vulnerable to find their own way home.”