MORE police officers are to be used to try to control the 2,500 people who descend on the nightclubs of Newmarket every weekend.New central Government funding will now see an increased police and street warden presence in the town in an attempt to curb anti-social behaviour.

MORE police officers are to be used to try to control the 2,500 people who descend on the nightclubs of Newmarket every weekend.

New central Government funding will now see an increased police and street warden presence in the town in an attempt to curb anti-social behaviour.

Forest Heath Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (CDRP) is due to launch a Safe Clubbing initiative tomorrow.

The partnership, which comprises representatives from district and town councils, retailers, neighbourhood watch, pubs, clubs and Suffolk police, is determined to tackle incidents of violence and disorder on club nights in the town.

Two extra police officers will be provided between 9pm and 3am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays as well as more street wardens to tackle issues such as illegal parking.

Insp Steve Brown, Newmarket sector commander and chair of the partnership, said: "The funding will allow us to provide a much more visible presence in the town during times when it most matters. These extra officers will be over and above those already on patrols, focusing on reducing incidents of violence and disorder.

"The majority of people going out on these nights are doing so purely to have fun. By increasing our presence we aim to ensure that this is the case and that everyone has a good time without impacting negatively on the local community."

Mr Brown said the officers will be briefed and encouraged to interact with clubbers, giving guidance and friendly advice – especially at the end of the evening when they are making their way home.

"Extra officers in the club areas will also have obvious spin off effects in the rest of the town and I will be able to target other problem areas and provide reassurance patrols across the town," he said.

"As some local residents are aware we do have a problem with people parking illegally on club nights. It is hoped that the increased presence of traffic wardens will help to reduce this," Mr Brown added.

The scheme will run initially on a trial basis for six weeks. If successful the funding may be provided to continue the scheme.