EXTRA police patrols will be on duty in North Yorkshire and Humberside this New Year's Eve.

Although the annual event is a great time to socialise with friends and family, excess can lead to revellers becoming vulnerable, or becoming victims of crime.

Humberside Police’s Operation Yuletide has urged partygoers to make sure they stay safe on their nights out or in this New Years Eve, and have planned high-visibility patrols of police and partner agencies in drinking hotspots around the region.

In York, Chief Inspector Charlotte Bloxham of York Safer Neighbourhood Team, said messages which have been stencilled onto the streets of the city were a good way to get safety messages across to the public.

She said: "York has a bustling nightlife but it is vital that people know their limits and don't put themselves or other people at risk by drinking too much.

"I hope the messages strike a chord with party goers and make them think about their own safety, getting home safe and looking after their friends."

Inspector Lydia Davenport from North Yorkshire Police said: "Know your own limits when you are drinking. Don't get caught up in other people's games or drinking levels and don't accept drinks from people you don't know.

"Make sure you look after your belongings in bars and clubs, you don't want to become a victim of theft when you should be out enjoying yourself, and make sure you get home safely."

If you are going out on New Year's Eve, remember these tips:

- Do not leave your drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers

- Stay with your friends on nights out

- Plan your journey home in advance by arranging to book a taxi home or using public transport

- Never use an unregistered taxi

- Do not drink and drive or travel with anyone who has had a drink

- Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with soft drinks.