POLICE are cracking down on night life crime to keep clubbers safe as students return to town.

Officers are set to push a range of measures including introducing hand-held metal detectors which help bouncers spot people carrying knives.

The strategy is part of efforts to prevent alcohol and drug-related problems, improve perceptions of Bolton town centre and make it a safer place for people to go out.

This includes promoting the Ask for Angela scheme, which gives members of the public a discreet codeword that they can repeat to club or bar staff if they feel vulnerable or threatened and be taken to get help in a safe location.

Insp Karen Clappison is helping to run the various initiatives, which she says are increasingly important as students return to Bolton and the busy Christmas period approaches. She said: “We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy everything Bolton has to offer, in the safest possible environment by working with our partners, Bolton Council, local businesses and licensed premises.

“It’s so important for our venues, licensees, security firms and taxi drivers and all of those involved in our night-time economy to work together to make Bolton town centre a great place to enjoy a night out.

Police and Bolton Council have also been working with 25 pubs, bars and clubs across town as part of the Best Bar None scheme. The project focuses on improving standards of training for staff, as well as creating new ways to keep people safe during nights out.

Since last year, the venues involved in Best Bar None have been taking steps to ensure customers get home safely after a night out, by displaying information on how to spot a licensed taxi. This project - named Get Home Safe - also includes a number of taxis which display stickers to allow customers to easily see they are fully licensed and safe.

Insp Clappison praised the two schemes and the impact they have had on night life.

She added: “Our Best Bar None has seen some real success since its initial launch two years ago and the Get Home Safe scheme is another great step in the right direction, ensuring that members of the public have all the support to make safe and informed decisions.”

To report offences, call 101 or use the Live Chat feature on www.gmp.police.uk

“I would encourage members of the public to continue to work with police and report offences so that we can act on it at the earliest possible opportunity. In an emergency call 999, in a non-emergency or to report an incident that has already happened ring 101 or use the new LiveChat function on the GMP website.”