Twenty uniformed police officers will be patrolling the Brick Lane area over Christmas. The high visibility patrols will focus on deterring crime and disorder as thousands of people are expected to go to the clubs and bars in and around Spitalfields.

Twenty uniformed police officers will be patrolling the Brick Lane area over Christmas.

The 'high visibility' patrols will focus on deterring crime and disorder as thousands of people are expected to go to the clubs and bars in and around Spitalfields' famous curry lane.

Police Sgt Charlie Earwicker said: "We're contacting all the licensed premises to ensure they serve people responsibly with alcohol. We are promoting plastic glasses, and pubs and clubs will have a hotline number to phone to ensure any disorder is dealt with promptly."

Police are also promoting Cabwise, a service that helps women get a licensed taxi or minicab home safely.

Leaflets are also being distributed to remind party revellers to drink within their limits and stay safe.