Police force launches spoof ‘hotel’ leaflet

Suffolk police are targeting drinkers with a spoof campaign that rebrands a town’s police station as a hotel called the Lock ‘Em Inn.

More than 30,000 leaflets have been distributed to pubs, clubs and bars in Ipswich advertising the hotel’s “services”, to remind visitors of the dangers of binge-drinking.

The campaign coincides with the introduction of new licensing laws across England and Wales, allowing many pubs and bars to stay open for longer. There have been widespread concerns about the impact of extended licensing hours.

The leaflet describes the police station as “convenient accommodation with lots of bars”, and adds that ” the atmosphere is truly unique”.

It goes on to say that the accommodation at the Lock ‘Em Inn is “minimalist chic”, which has been created “with economy in mind”.

However, the pamphlet does point out that there will always be staff available “to keep an eye on your comfort” and that all rooms have CCTV. It reminds readers that the cost of a stay can be as much as &£5,000.

The police campaign also includes posters that have gone up around Ipswich, bearing the slogan: “Your night out. Don’t spend it with us.”

Sergeant Neil Boast, who helped produce the leaflet along with colleagues, says the aim is to make sure people realise that being locked up for the night “is not a pleasant experience”.