Alsager: Who said the police don't have a sense of humour?

Cheshire Police have sent Christmas wishes with a 'special card' to repeat offenders from the Alsager area.

The seasons greetings card is to remind frequent offenders them that crime will not be tolerated during the festive season.

The card features a mocked-up online review of a custody suite which shows the hospitality Alsager criminals can expect to receive if you end up getting yourself in trouble with the law this Christmas.

And there is a message inside from Chief Constable Mark Roberts, which states: "Spending Christmas with us is not recommended. If you are considering committing a crime, think again."

The cards are being sent to hundreds of repeat offenders across the county as part of the Constabulary's #OpJingles campaign.

It is the first Christmas Mark Roberts will have as Chief Constable, having taken up the new role in April.

Chief Constable Roberts said: "The aim of #OpJingles is to deter criminals, catch those who are responsible for crime, minimise disruption across the county and keep people feeling safe and reassured over the festive period."

"This card has been designed in order to remind some of our more serial offenders that crime will not be tolerated, and if you do commit crime then we will target you.

"A custody suite is definitely not the best place to spend your time, and as you can see from the card the facilities we have are not going to be as luxurious as you would expect at home.

"I want to reassure people that we remain resolute in our pursuit of those who believe they are above the law and will ensure they are held accountable for the crimes they have committed."

"We want everyone to have a good time and enjoy themselves this December, and the best way to do that is to behave responsibly and make sure you are with your families and friends for the festive period - spending the night in a custody suite is not something I would recommend."

John Dwyer, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire said: "Over my 30-year career in policing I saw plenty of people spending Christmas in the cells and I don't imagine the experience has got any more enjoyable.

"There's a serious message behind #OpJingles: If you're going to try and ruin someone else's Christmas in Cheshire through crime, you will only end up ruining your own.

"I hope everyone in Cheshire gets to enjoy a relaxed and responsible Christmas with their friends and family, and that anyone who wants to turn over a new leaf can do so in 2022."

999 calls are expected to rise this year, from last Christmas 2020's figures, where most of the county was under strict coronavirus restrictions.