AN EASTER crackdown will be launched by police this weekend in a bid to tackle known crime hot-spots across west Suffolk.Increased patrols and police horses will be utilised to combat historical “violence or rowdy behaviour” during the long Easter weekend and throughout the school holidays.

Dave Gooderham

AN EASTER crackdown will be launched by police this weekend in a bid to tackle known crime hot-spots across west Suffolk.

Increased patrols and police horses will be utilised to combat historical “violence or rowdy behaviour” during the long Easter weekend and throughout the school holidays.

Police Superintendent David Skevington said: “Details of crimes and other incidents we have been called to in previous years have been analysed so we can put the right resources in the right places.

“Officers will be on patrol in identified hotspot areas where historically offences of violence or rowdy behaviour have risen during this period.”

Supt Skevington said additional patrols would take place in town centres over the long Easter bank holiday weekend - regarded as a traditional time for more alcohol to be consumed.

He added: “The combination of lighter and warmer evenings and the two bank holidays adds up to many more people coming into our towns for a night out.

“The majority of those want to enjoy their evening, drink responsibly and get home safely. Officers will be on hand to assist those who need help and reassurance, but they will also deal firmly with anyone causing trouble.”

Newmarket town centre will see the first visit this year of the City of London's police horses, Lulu and Shrek, on Saturday while officers patrolling the town will also be joined by members of the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations throughout April.

Police will also be targeting cycle security with figures showing a dramatic increase in the number of bikes stolen around Easter.