Police in the Thames Valley and other organisations have joined forces to clamp down on drink-related violence.

Det Supt Richard List, who is leading the December initiative, said it was vital to make this Christmas safer for local communities.

He said: "Anecdotal evidence shows that people who are drunk and lose control have a higher risk of becoming either a victim or an offender.

"We want people to go out and have a good time this Christmas, but our message is to drink sensibly and stay safe."

Between April and October this year, there was a five per cent increase in violence against the person, compared with the same period the previous year. Violence against the person accounts for 22 per cent of all crime across the force area.

Fixed penalty notices will be issued to people who get drunk and disorderly in a public place, or who behave in a way likely to cause other people harm or distress.

Police and council officers will also be carrying out random checks at off-licences, pubs, bars and clubs as part of a crackdown on the sale of alcohol to under-age and excessive drinkers.

The move ties in with Home Office, NHS and police campaigns to highlight the dangers of underage and excessive drinking.

As reported in Tuesday's Mail, police in Witney are sending 15-year-olds in the area Christmas cards with a simple seasonal message - stay off the booze.