OFFICERS have lit the fuse on a major policing operation aimed at keeping people safe and cutting crime during the Christmas party season.

From now until the end of December police will be on the streets on Thursday to Sunday evenings handing out crime safety tips to people on their way to nights out.

They will then be on patrol in busy nightspots throughout the evening and into the early hours to keep revellers safe as they travel home.

South area commander Simon Letchford said: “Operation Fuse is about keeping people safe and we want people to be able to have a safe and enjoyable night out in south London.

“While we will be patrolling busy areas, the pubs, bars and clubs also have a responsibility to keep their customers and the public safe and to prevent crime and disorder.”