Summer anti-rape campaign launched

The initiative, which is being supported by North Lincolnshire Council, the health service and pub landlords, urges people who are going out to socialise not to put themselves at risk after an increase in attacks during warmer weather at Easter.

Det Sgt Nicki Miller, the officer leading the campaign, said: “It is important that at this time of year we remind people of the importance of staying safe whilst going out around North Lincolnshire.

“We are keen to ensure that the number of sexual offences does not increase at this time of year and this is the main reason behind this campaign. We want the men and women of North Lincolnshire to go out and enjoy themselves, but we don’t want them to have a night they might regret.

“The campaign, which is mainly targeted at women, will also remind men of the part they play whilst out socialising. We want to remind them of the importance of knowing what consent means and educating them on the importance of being safe.

“I understand that not all people put themselves in vulnerable positions when out in the town centres, public houses and nightclubs, but it is important that we send a clear message to raise awareness of the possible dangers people might face during their night out or on the way home.”

Posters bearing the message “think when you drink” will be displayed in pubs, nightclubs, hairdressers, taxi ranks and fast food outlets.

Paul Ferguson, chairman of Pubwatch North Lincolnshire, said: “As far as the pub trade is concerned, yes we want people to come out and have a good time, but we absolutely do not want then to be putting themselves at risk or falling victim to crime as a result of them visiting our venues.

“We want all of our customers to remain safe and have only good memories of their night out with us.”