Ditch the drink or find another way home – No alcohol policy for Southport’s Orange Lodge Parade

Ditch the drink or find another way home – British Transport Police enforce Merseyrail’s no alcohol policy for Orange Lodge Parade

As thousands of people prepare to gather in Liverpool to attend Southport’s annual Orange Lodge March on Wednesday, British Transport Police will be enforcing Merseyrail’s dry trains policy during the event.

Officers will be patrolling stations and assisting passengers along the way reminding them that alcohol will not be permitted on trains.
Under bylaw 4 it is an offence to carry open containers of alcohol or consume alcohol on Merseyrail stations and trains so officers are asking those who plan on using the rail network to leave the booze behind before they travel.

Event commander for British Transport Police, Inspector Adrian Yorston said: “There’s no question that in some cases the excessive consumption of alcohol can result in trouble and quickly turn the mood of an event. By helping Merseyrail implement their no alcohol policy we encourage those attending the march to enjoy the occasion and keep in good spirits but don’t turn up for your train having drunk excessive amounts or carrying alcohol or you will be refused travel.

“Generally attendees are well behaved and are there to support the march and enjoy the day out before returning home in a peaceful manner and we want to maintain this atmosphere by warning people in advance.

“We want everyone to travel safely and securely, this includes those people using the rail network who aren’t attending the march and who want to enjoy a peaceful journey.”

British Transport Police will be providing high visibility patrols at stations throughout the day, supporting Merseyrail staff, reassuring passengers and looking out for any incidents of anti social behaviour.

Insp Yorston added: “Any disruptive or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated. We appreciate that it’s only the minority who instigate anti social behaviour but they affect the enjoyment of others. We will take appropriate steps to deal with any offenders. I would urge everyone who uses the railway to save 61016, our text service number to their phones. It’s a really useful way to report crime discreetly when you can’t make a call.”