Issued: 1 Jul 2008
NORTHERN Constabulary's Ross and Cromarty Area Command last Friday (27 June 2008) hosted its first official Bluelight event along with its partner agencies.
The event took place at the Spa Pavilion, Strathpeffer with around 200 teenagers attending from Dingwall and Fortrose Academy.
Bluelight is a project that provides discos for young people, which was born in Fife. Entry to each disco, which is strictly controlled by Police officers, is by pre-purchase of a ticket and undertaking a breath test and a search. Anyone failing the test will be denied entry and will be taken home by Police officers.
The Bluelight event gives young people the opportunity to see that fun can be had without indulging in alcohol abuse, drugs or anti-social behaviour which unfortunately some of their peers do engage in.
It was hailed a great success by Inspector Pamela Ross who stated: "We had a fantastic evening which was enjoyed as much by the adults, who had all volunteered to attend and assist in providing a safe and secure venue for young people to simply have a ball."
"My thanks are to the Fire Service, Red Cross, Coastguard, Education, Local Councillors, Anti Social Behaviour investigator, Youth Workers and many volunteers who gave up their own time which helped with the overall success of the event."
"I am particularly grateful to the Highland Council Ward Manager Diane Agnew who worked so closely with Constable Carrie Shanks and Police staff member Lorraine Kellow and also to our sponsors Stagecoach for providing the transport."
Inspector Ross added: "The success of this event is due to so many young people attending and it is a reminder to us all that the vast majority of our youngsters are decent, thoughtful and hardworking individuals who are a credit to their communities."
It is not always easy to resist peer pressure but Police and their partners hope this is one event, which reinforces the message that adults are willing to help youngsters resist such pressure.
It is hoped more events will run throughout the year, which can be just as successful with the continued support from partner agencies and colleagues.