Men are being asked to walk away from 'escalating situations' on nights out to prevent deaths.

In the last five years in Greater Manchester, nine men have lost their lives from a single punch or shove.

In the same time frame, there have been 92 cases of grievous bodily harm where a single punch has caused serious, but thankfully survivable, injuries.

All these incidents, and the damage they caused to the victims and their loved ones, were avoidable.

And now Greater Manchester Police, the Violence Reduction Unit, and partners, such as licensing teams, are supporting the campaign as part of the ongoing commitment to tackling serious violence and reducing homicide across the region.

Detective Superintendent Chris Bridge said: “We are taking part in a national campaign aimed at encouraging men to make the right choice and walk away.

“We want people to recognise theirs and heir mates’ triggers, de-escalate situations and say no to violence.

“Nights out are supposed to be about having fun, waking up with stories to laugh about, help us to make sure everyone does wake up the next day.

“Just walk away.”

As part of the campaign, the public can expect stepped up visible and plain clothed patrols across the next few weeks in hotspot areas, as pubs, bars and clubs see increased numbers of patrons enjoying the festivities, and then bringing in the new year.

For more information on the campaign, visit www.wewalkaway.uk. 

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on X @chloewjourno.