Revellers were kept calm in Cannock over Christmas and New Year thanks to a group of carol singers.
The singers, all members of Chase Harmony, were drafted in by Cannock Chase Council as part of a campaign entitled It’s Never Ok, which aimed to minimise alcohol-related violence over the festive period.
The group performed three Christmas carols in Cannock and Rugeley town centres to help calm revellers down, prevent incidents of violence and lift the Christmas spirit.
The singers, known as the flashmob, went onto the streets with members of Staffordshire Police, council staff and firefighters from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. Candy canes were also handed out to crowds.
Cllr George Adamson, leader of Cannock Chase Council, said the campaign had been a success, adding: “The flashmob concept is an innovative approach in helping to address alcohol-related violence. The performances by Chase Harmony were superb and everyone really enjoyed them.
“Each performance had a positive impact and night-revellers responded well. I would personally like to thank Chase Harmony for their support with this campaign.”
John Nicholls, musical director of Chase Harmony, said: “Chase Harmony was pleased to add their support to the campaign. The flashmobs were a great idea and helped to show a different side to the Christmas spirit.”
The campaign, which was funded by Chase Community Safety Partnership, was split into two sections: Violent Night – encouraging night-time revellers not to get involved in violence whilst under the influence of alcohol; and Season’s Beatings – preventing incidents of domestic violence by challenging the behaviour of the perpetrator and encouraging victims to report abuse.