EXTRA police patrols in Huddersfield town centre have drastically cut the number of drink-related arrests.
The number of people detained in the town has tumbled to virtually none from an average of 10 per night at weekends.
The scheme is now being extended to Dewsbury and the so-called Golden Mile area of Batley on the Bradford Road area, near the famous Variety Club.
Det Insp Ian Devey, of Kirklees police, said the scheme began in Huddersfield two weeks ago and would be extended to Dewsbury and Batley this weekend.
He added: "We normally have up to 10 arrests a night for drink-related incidents and assaults on Friday and Saturday evenings in Huddersfield.
"We've been putting the extra patrols on for two weeks now and have only had two incidents. Obviously we want to see this continue in North Kirklees." Det Insp Devey went on: "The emphasis is still on prevention. Patrol teams will link in with door staff to identify potential troublemakers, so any incidents can be nipped in the bud before they escalate.
"Neighbourhood Policing Teams will visit pubs and clubs too, to check that alcohol is being sold responsibly," he said.
"We are not out to spoil people's fun, but we are committed to tackling drink-related crime and disorder across the district.
"Our activities will help to ensure that people who live, work or come to enjoy a night out anywhere in Kirklees can do so in safety."
Patrols are still being stepped up in Huddersfield town centre and extra uniformed officers, along with police community support officers, are being used again in "hot spot" areas to deter any problems.
"We continue to encourage people to drink sensibly and know their limits," added Det Insp Devey.
