EXTRA police officers are being drafted into Huddersfield this weekend to target drink-related violence and anti-social behaviour.

Patrols will be stepped up in the town centre and additional uniformed officers, along with police community support officers, will be deployed in hot spot areas to deter any problems.

Det Insp Ian Devey said: "The emphasis is on prevention rather than having to use the cells and the courts as the cure."

The police operation began last weekend in Huddersfield and Det Insp Devey said: "There were no reported assaults on either Friday or Saturday night which is a very pleasing start.

"The initiative will continue this coming weekend and we will be spreading the scheme across the whole of the Kirklees District in the future."

Local officers are being supported in the initiative by officers from the operational support unit along with other police resources.

CCTV systems that cover the main areas around pubs and clubs are being monitored in order to identify potential troublemakers at an early stage.

Det Insp Devey said: "People must remember that violent crime is rare and that the chances of being a victim are slight.

"But still we want to ensure that the Kirklees district is a safe place for everyone."

He said police would work with licensees and door staff who would be encouraged to eject or refuse access to people who are drunk or known troublemakers.

Det Insp Devey said: "Millions of people drink alcohol responsibly every day.

"No-one wants to stop that pleasure, but there should be safe and enjoyable drinking for the majority and zero tolerance of the anti-social minority.

"We are determined that people should not be put off from enjoying themselves by those intent on getting drunk and starting fights."