West Yorkshire Police receives more than 1,500 calls on New Year’s Eve

As revellers nursed hangovers yesterday, West Yorkshire Police revealed it had answered 1,505 calls in the first five hours of 2014.

Almost 1,100 of the calls were to the 999 number, which is an increase of around 50 calls compared to New Year’s Eve 2012.

Around 180 people were placed in custody across the county, mostly arrested for drunkenness, public disorder and minor assaults.

The force said it had planned a major operation to meet the challenges of the evening with hundreds of additional staff on shift.

Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police Mark Gilmore said: “I want to thank all of our officers, staff and volunteers for their dedication last night - many of whom worked very long shifts - to ensure we were able to cope with the demands.

“Often faced with intimidating and unpleasant situations, their selfless and positive actions ensured that the vast majority of the public were able to enjoy the New Year’s celebrations safely.”