Your carriage awaits at the NiteZone ranks

Glasgow has launched the sixth steward-manned NiteZone, on West George Street at The Anchor Line.

The latest addition brings the city centre total to four, with others on Sauchiehall St, Albion St and Gordon St, as well as Byres Road in the westend and, as reported in The Extra in August, a trial-run version at The Shed in Shawlands.

A SafeZone is also being set up at St George’s Tron Church on Buchanan St, where those in need can charge their phone for free, as well as getting help from volunteer street pastors.

The SafeZone will run until January 1 as part of a pilot, and the NiteZones will operate between 11pm and 5am on weekends throughout December.

Phil Walker, managing director of Community Safety Glasgow, said: “Tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to the city to celebrate. The city will be exceedingly busy and extra measures are being put in place due to the numbers of people expected.

“This new NiteZone is a fantastic addition to the existing network. They are extremely popular with people keen to get home quickly after a night out — something that is especially welcome in winter weather.”

Chief inspector Mark Sutherland, Police Scotland area commander for the city centre, added: “People can tend to overindulge when out socialising at this time of year, which can leave them vulnerable.

“I’d encourage people coming into the city centre to have a good time and enjoy the festivities, but please do so safely and be sensible about how much alcohol you consume — look after yourself and your friends.”