EXTRA bobbies are being drafted in to police Crewe town centre during high-profile World Cup matches.

The additional officers, including bobbies from Cheshire's Area Support Group (ASG), are carrying out high visibility patrols at key times in the afternoons and evenings to reassure the public and deter incidents of crime and disorder.

Assistant chief constable Garry Shewan said: "It's all in a bid to ensure local people can enjoy the games, including those played by England, in safety.

"With the World Cup well under way, even more people are coming into the town centres to watch matches at the pubs and bars.

"We want people to have a good time but are encouraging everyone to act responsibly, not to drink too much and to look after their friends."

Police are carrying out weekly assessments as part of the intelligence-led operation to ensure officers are on the streets in and around licensed premises to coincide with matches attracting the biggest audiences.

The Government's latest Alcohol Misuse Enforcement Campaign (AMEC) saw targeted patrols, alcohol seizures, test purchase exercises and random spot checks of license holders and door staff to ensure the Crewe social scene was legal and trouble-free.

The campaign will continue until the end of the tournament.

ACC Shewan added: "While behaviour in the town centres has generally been very good, there have been some instances of drunken and rowdy behaviour after matches.

"The presence of extra officers will hopefully reassure the local community that officers are out on the streets and ready to deal with any issues should they arise.

"But their presence should also act as a deterrent to would-be troublemakers who should know that we will not tolerate drink-related disorder of any kind."