Local police have thanked the majority of people who enjoyed Super Saturday safely and responsibly after pubs and bars reopened at the weekend.

The force had to prepare for a rise in demand, with new patrols and policing operations in place as the public headed out to their local premises.

Luckily, no serious incidents were recorded in Biddulph, although demand on the police was high and was comparable to that of New Year's Eve, despite the majority of people adhering to the guidelines.

Staffordshire Police received 449 emergency calls between the hours of 7pm to 4am – just fewer than those recorded on New Year's Eve (488) and double the number recorded on an average Saturday night in July 2019 (228).

Most of the calls were made due to drink-related disorders and anti-social behaviour.

Staffordshire Police Chief Constable Gareth Morgan said: "We understand that a lot of people were eager to get out as restrictions lifted and I'd like to thank the majority of people who did so responsibly, adhering to government guidelines and to the procedures local bars and restaurants had in place.

"As expected, calls for service increased substantially and we received a number of reports of violence, anti-social and drunk and disorderly behaviour. Colleagues and partners worked hard to ensure all eventualities were planned for and I am grateful for the ongoing and collaborative effort to keep people safe.

He also condemned an attack against a Special Constable, who suffered serious facial injuries following an assault in Uttoxeter, adding: "My thoughts and well wishes are with the Special Constable who was injured while fulfilling his duties serving his local community. Any attack against a police officer is absolutely despicable and I know it will be condemned by the public. I am clear when I say this behaviour will not be tolerated - officers do not deserve to be treated in this way.

"We continue to have robust plans in place as we all get used to a new normal with more premises opening and we would urge people to continue to be sensible during what is still an unprecedented time.

"The crisis isn't yet over - Coronavirus remains a serious risk and people need to continue to be sensible and follow Government guides which include social distancing and increased hygiene measures."