CHRISTMAS party-goers in Dunfermline will have a safe zone to go to over the festive period.

It will be in operation every Friday and Saturday night in the run-up to Christmas, starting next weekend.

The safe zone, at 13-15 Maygate, will be a drop-in for those separated from friends, suffering effects from too much alcohol or requiring minor medical assistance. It will be open from 11pm to 5am.

Jill Moss, Inspector for Community Policing in Dunfermline, said: "We are committed to keeping people safe and we are pleased to build on the success of previous years to once again be involved in the initiative, which provides drop-in facilities in Dunfermline town centre.

"With our new location on the Maygate, it is ideally situated for people to find us.

"The over-consumption of alcohol can increase people’s vulnerability and their chance of becoming a victim of crime. The safe zone provides a place for them to rest, seek advice and get help if they need it.

"While we hope that people will not need to use the services at the Dunfermline Safe Zone and will keep themselves safe when out and about, by having a fully-staffed facility we hope to provide some reassurance that we can offer help should they find themselves in a difficult situation."

This year, for the first time, there will be advice on mental health issues with the Samaritans. This can be a difficult time of year for some people and they will be able to provide advice or point people in the direction of mental health services.

It's open this month on Friday, 13 and 20, and Saturday, 14 and 21.