Ringing in the cells: Police make 80 arrests as New Year's Eve turns into 2020

Police Dog Jeff helped in the arrest of a burglary suspect one minute after midnight on New Year's Day.

Between 6pm on New Year’s Eve and 6am on New Year’s Day, officers handled call outs on one of the busiest nights of the year.

More than 20 were arrested on suspicion of theft from a shop; 12 for assault by beating; five for drink driving; five for grievous bodily harm and four for being drunk and disorderly in a public place.

Others were arrested for assaulting an emergency worker, criminal damage, common assault, possessing drugs and for threatening behaviour.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Alison Jackson worked the New Year's Eve shift as it moved into New Year's Day.

The first arrest of 2020 was made at one minute past midnight, when officers from response, the dog unit and Temporary Chief Superintendents Alison Jackson and Dave Sutherland arrested a man on suspicion of burglary with the help of Police Dog Jeff.

Temp Ch Supt Alison Jackson said: “Officers and staff across the force worked tirelessly on New Year’s Eve to keep everyone safe.

“This night was one of the busiest of the year and I am so proud of everyone for their hard work, dedication and determination to keep our communities safe.

“All of our officers and staff work around the clock every day of the year, which includes the festive period.

“They sacrifice their time with their family and friends, on occasions putting their lives on the line to keep the public we serve safe.

“The force and I are grateful for their amazing work.”