POLICE are urging people not to let Christmas drinking descend into violence.

In an annual crackdown, officers from Cumbria Police have sent out a warning to people in effort to curtail alcohol-induced violent crime.

Research has shown that a third of all serious violent crime recorded in Cumbria is alcohol related.

Cumbria Police are urging people to think when they drink this party season – and walk away from any trouble, saying: "It's not worth it."

And with the festive season getting into full flow, officers are asking people to watch out for friends, keep any drinking in check and think of the bigger picture if confronted with trouble.

People can receive long jail sentences for crimes such as causing grievous bodily harm if they lose their tempers in pubs and clubs.

Superintendent Sarah Jackson said: “This is a fantastic time of year.

“People work hard all year and everyone deserves to enjoy themselves as the party season gets going.

“But an enjoyable night should also be a safe night – not one that ends up in hospital or in one of our cells.

“Most people go out and behave sensibly. But there are a minority who become involved in trouble – and this can easily get out-of-hand.

“I would urge all those who struggle with their tempers after a drink to think hard before they go out about what could happen.”

Supt Jackson asked people to swallow their pride and walk away from any confrontations that might happen.

She added: “It just isn’t worth it.

“Something trivial can easily escalate. Nobody wants to spend time in our cells and nobody wants a criminal record or a jail sentence.

“And little arguments can lead to big consequences, with people suffering injuries that can stay with them for the rest of their lives.”

Cumbria’s police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said: “I’m pleased to see the constabulary raising awareness around alcohol-induced violence and I think the message is clear: know your limits, have a safe night and if trouble starts to appear – walk away."