MOUNTED police have been drafted in to help cope with increased town centre crime and disorder in the run-up to Christmas.

Shoppers will be greeted by the sight of officers on horseback as part of a range of measures during the festive season.

Bromley police's town centre unit is upping patrols to combat the pressures associated with an increased number of shoppers and people visiting the town.

Sergeant Terry New from the unit said: "Forty per cent of the year's trading in Bromley town centre is done during November and December.

"This means the town will be very busy. We are committed to ensuring it remains a safe and enjoyable place to visit."

Most shops in The Glades shopping centre and the town centre will be open for late night Christmas shopping every weekday up to 9pm.

The increase in visitors means an increase in traffic congestion and nuisance parking, particularly during late evenings, police say.

Also with more people out drinking in the pubs and clubs, there is the potential for an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour.

The town centre unit has drawn up an eight-point plan for the Christmas period, including high- visibility patrols to "provide the public with reassurance", visiting licensed premises and enforcing the town centre's alcohol exclusion zone.

Other measures include making full use of the new dispersal powers, which allow for unruly youths to be moved on, which it was recently announced will be extended for another six months until May.

Police have also pledged to work closely with the council, The Glades management and traffic wardens to tackle parking offences and disorder, such as graffiti and vandalism.