Two police drug dogs put paw to pavement alongside officers to deter drug use and further increase public safety in Mansfield’s night-time economy.

Dougie and Oakley, alongside their handlers, Pc Nicola Crabtree and Pc James Sills, were joined by Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden to undertake Operation Guardian.

More than 12 officers and two dog handlers targeted drug users and dealers, aiming to deter criminal activity, all contributing to a safer night-time environment in Mansfield.

The operation was enhanced by Safer Streets funding of £333,000 allocated to Ashfield and Mansfield, which provided additional officers to join the existing team on the night.

Operation Guardian was just one of many interventions across Mansfield town centre over the past year, which has included newly-installed CCTV, Safe Point intercoms on West Gate and Clumber Street — that enable 24/7 communication with Mansfield District Council’s CCTV operators — a refreshed Ask For Angela campaign, and the presence of St John Ambulance helpers. That aims to give women who feel unsafe on a night out the offer of discreet support from venue staff.

Rhiannon Elizabeth, pub manager at The Garrison micropub in Mansfield town centre, welcomed the measures. Previously facing challenges with drug users and anti-social youths near her venue, she now feels significantly safer.

“Anything can happen in dark, shady corners, so anything that can be done to ensure those locations are covered with CCTV is a good thing,” she said.

“I live in central Mansfield, about a 10-minute walk from the pub, and I can honestly say I feel much safer.

“Having more people around to help out is reassuring. If anything were to happen, it’s comforting to know there’s St John Ambulance close by in a medical emergency.”

The operation also forms part of a broader strategy to create a safer night-time economy in Mansfield.

In addition to the policing measures, the Safer Streets programme has supported a youth diversion scheme, delivered by Switch Up, which aims to give young people at risk of offending positive alternatives.

Outreach workers have been liaising with council community safety officers to support these vulnerable young people, some of whom have benefitted from mentoring and boxing tuition at the Switch Up Community Hub on Barringer Road in the town.

Local Neighbourhood Policing Teams have also initiated early night-time check-ins — carrying out venue checks, patrols, and proactive monitoring to remove individuals causing disorder early on.

Commissioner Gary, who attended the operation alongside district councillors Angie Jackson and Caroline Ellis, of Mansfield District Council, said: “Operation Guardian is a clear demonstration of how targeted investment through the Safer Streets programme can transform our town centre.”

Insp Kylie Davies added: “Operation Guardian is just one part of our ongoing efforts to make Mansfield’s town centre a safer place for everyone. “Alongside targeted enforcement operations like this, our team has been working hard to tackle anti-social behaviour, reduce violence against women and girls, and support local businesses.

“Through dedicated patrols and problem-solving initiatives, we have seen a 32% reduction in shop thefts and significant decreases in anti-social behaviour in the town centre.”

Caroline said: “This isn’t just about enforcement, it’s about prevention. It also links in with the wider Safer Streets 5 initiatives, including new CCTV and safe points, along with St John’s Ambulance helpers, to send a strong message to residents that our town is safe.”