River patrols take place in Shrewsbury

Patrols will be carried out along the River Severn this weekend, in partnership with West Mercia Search and Rescue (WMSAR), ensuring people stay safe as they celebrate the festive season.

This will be the second weekend the foot patrols have taken place as they form part of force’s Operation Presence, which sees patrols being carried out in towns and cities as people enjoy a festive night out.

As part of the patrols volunteers from WMSAR will be walking along the river in Shrewsbury, and will be on hand to assist anyone who may come into danger with the water.

Shropshire’s Chief Inspector for patrol, Mark Reilly, said: “Sadly, we know from previous years that the river can have devastating consequences for people simply enjoying a night out here in Shrewsbury, which is why I am pleased to be working with WMSAR as part of Op Presence.

“By carrying out these patrols by the river, using WMSARs expertise and skills, we hope that we will be able to help someone if they do come in to contact with the water, and therefore find themselves in difficulty.

“I am hopeful that we won’t need to use their service, but I hope having them here will offer reassurance to those planning a night out here in the town.”

Mark Eccleston, from WMSAR, added: “As a charity, WMSAR have delivered this voluntary service since 2017 and we are proud to be part of Op Presence this year supporting West Mercia Police, and continuing with our support of West Mercia’s Police Crime Commissioner’s Home and Dry campaign.

“Working with both agencies is really important to us, and we hope everyone out celebrating the festive season this weekend stays safe.”

These patrols form part of WMSAR and West Mercia’s Police and Crime Commissioner’s Home and Dry campaign.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I am a proud supporter of the work West Mercia Search and Rescue does all year-round to save lives.

“During the festive season, many people will be out enjoying a drink in Shrewsbury. That’s why it’s really important that West Mercia Police is ever more visible and accessible whilst working closely with partners like WMSAR to ensure people get home safely.”