NEW Year’s Eve celebrations across North Dorset passed in a lively but positive atmosphere with officers and PCSOs out and about to support venues and reassure communities.

In Blandford, PCSO Jamie spent part of his shift visiting licensed premises to check how businesses had managed the busy Christmas period and to discuss plans for one of the biggest nights of the year.

Venues were reported to be well prepared with staff ready to welcome revellers safely into the New Year.

Across Gillingham, Shaftesbury, Blandford and Sturminster Newton, officers Ash and Christian carried out foot patrols as part of Operation Snow.

(Photo: North Dorset Police)

The patrols provided a visible presence in town centres, helping to deter crime while giving officers the chance to speak with people out enjoying the festivities.

During their patrols, officers stopped two teenagers who attempted to avoid them.

A search under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act was carried out, and both were found to be in possession of cannabis.

They will be dealt with in due course for the offences.

(Photo: North Dorset Police)

Aside from this, the evening was described as good-natured as officers chatted to residents and families, including children keen to share stories about their Christmas presents.

Patrols continued into the night, helping ensure New Year’s Eve was both enjoyable and safe for communities across North Dorset.