Firstly I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Whatever your religious beliefs this will be an important holiday period for all and I and my staff want to make this a safe time of year for you all.

Sadly at this time of year many people become the victims of crime. Homes are broken into and presents stolen, so if you want to ensure the safety of your home, make sure you lock all windows and doors upon leaving. If you have an alarm make sure that it is set and leave lights on so that your home doesn’t appear empty to those who are out looking to steal from you.

This year we have two operations running in order to try to ensure that all those that live work and travel through Brent can do so in a safe and pleasant environment. Operation Safer Nights is not only aimed at reducing thefts at this time of year but also aimed at reducing the level of sexual and violence offences that traditionally rise at this time of year.

The Operation has been running since early December and will continue throughout the New Year period. In addition we have boosted officer presence in the busy locations across the borough on Friday and Saturday nights with the aim of reducing offences of this nature by at least 20 per cent when compared to last year. So far we are exceeding that target.

Much of this rise in these particular crime types can be attributed to excessive consumption of alcohol, Christmas and New Years Parties are often the catalyst so please ensure that you drink sensibly during this time of year so that you are able to enjoy the whole festive period and enjoy the New Year.

Last weekend we also ran Operation Condor to target licensed premises to ensure that these are places where people can enjoy themselves in a safe environment. Earlier in the week, police were forced to take action in relation to ‘Peaches’, Kenton Road, Harrow,. Following a number of violent incidents at the premises, a review was undertaken of the license. The premises is to remain open but a full review will take place. A number of restrictions, were put in place. The main ones being that the hours during which licensable activities cease on the premises have been reduced. No entry or re-entry to the premises permitted after 01.00.

No drinks shall be served other than in plastic or toughened glasses, the shisha bar is to remain fully closed up to, and including, the date of the review hearing.

Although I have highlighted these issues, Brent is now a safer place as we have reduced serious crimes by over 20 per cent this year. Be safe and enjoy whatever activities you take part in over the coming weeks.