Dedicated safety officers will be on patrol in two North Yorkshire towns this summer, helping to keep fans safe as they enjoy the World Cup.
The world’s biggest football tournament is being held across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with matches taking place throughout June and July.
Part of the night marshal scheme and led by our community safety team with funding from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, the project in Selby and Harrogate follows a successful pilot over the festive period in December last year.
The aim is to reduce anti-social behaviour and provide visible support in busy town centres during peak evening hours.
Delivered by North Yorkshire-based Eboracum Security, the safety officers will patrol key busy areas, particularly where matches are being shown, offering help and guidance where needed.
Their presence is intended to support residents and visitors enjoying the tournament and help keep town centres safe and well managed.
The safety officers will be on patrol in pairs in Selby and Harrogate on the following dates:
- Wednesday, June 17, from 5pm to 1am.
- Tuesday, June 23, from 5pm to 1am.
- Saturday, June 27, from 6pm to 2am.
- Sunday, July 19, from 12pm to 8pm.
Additional dates could be added, depending on the progress of the England team in the competition.
Executive member for corporate services, Cllr Heather Phillips, whose responsibilities include community safety, said: “Major events like the World Cup bring a real buzz to our town centres, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy them safely and responsibly.
“This initiative provides a visible presence to reassure people on a night out, while also tackling anti-social behaviour.
“By building on our pilot scheme and working with partners, we are helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for residents, visitors and businesses throughout the tournament.”
Cllr Jack Proud represents the Selby East Division. He said: “Selby is a fantastic place to come together and share big moments like the World Cup. Our local pubs and hospitality venues play a huge role in creating atmosphere and excitement for the tournament.
“With safety officers helping to support a safe and welcoming environment, I would encourage everyone to come out, back their teams, support local businesses, and enjoy the World Cup together.”
The representative for Valley Gardens and Central Harrogate is Cllr Sam Gibbs.
He said: “Harrogate will have a fantastic atmosphere during the World Cup, and we want people to enjoy everything the town has to offer.
“The safety officers will provide reassurance and support on busy evenings. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to enjoy the matches safely.”
North Yorkshire’s deputy mayor for policing, fire and crime, Jo Coles, said she was pleased to have been able to assist the council in the venture.
She said: "Football is brilliant at bringing people together, but unfortunately it also often brings increased policing pressures in our towns and city centres and heightened danger for women and girls.
“Mayor David Skaith and I are determined to do all we can to keep people safe in our region, so I’m delighted we've been able to work with partners and provide District Level Community Safety funding to support town safety officers who will carry out additional, visible patrols over the coming weeks.”