An extra 50 Police officers will be on patrol on New Year?s Eve after revellers were warned a ?vigorous? approach would be taken to troublemakers.

Police say they will be on the lookout for any problems as thousands of people flock to clubs, bars and parties across the Island to see in 2007 on Sunday night. Officers ? including some in plain clothes ? will be monitoring crowds, while traffic Police will be on the roads to keep a lookout for drink drivers and other driving offenders.

Assistant Police Commissioner Carlton Adams said officers would also be out in force tonight, when a lively evening of partying is expected to kick-start the final weekend of 2006.

He warned the ?robust? Police presence would be quick to deal with any inappropriate behaviour over the weekend.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday, Mr. Adams said: ?Over the New Year, a number of celebrations are planned throughout the Island.

?The Bermuda Police Service believes safety should be a key priority. There will be a robust presence throughout the Island. Regular patrols have been strengthened to ensure public safety is maintained. ?Public functions will be monitored. We will be in a position to respond in a vigorous manner should the need arise.

?This notable Police presence on the floor is to ensure public safety and that everybody enjoys themselves. We have reinforced our patrols considerably and will be in a position to deal with any inappropriate behaviour in the manner it deserves. Any behaviour that threatens the peace will be responded to vigorously by our patrols.?

Mr. Adams was unable to confirm the total number of officers on duty over the weekend.

But he stressed Police would also be out in force on the Island?s roads to ensure traffic flows smoothly. He said the message to party-goers was to avoid drink and driving. ?We will be monitoring traffic through the Island throughout the entire weekend,? he said. ?Those inclined to drink ? don?t drive. Do not mix alcohol consumption with driving.

?New Year is traditionally a time when there?s increased traffic flow associated with scores of celebrations Island-wide.

?We have enlisted a number of our officers to deal with traffic flows at associated hours that can sometimes arise. If you are out there, you will see us. Should anyone commit offences, they will know we are there.?

Mr. Adams said Police would pay particular attention to the St. George?s area, where a number of celebrations are planned.

Police have previously reported a relatively quiet Christmas period, with one major assault, and a host of burglaries and drink drive offences across the Island.

Officers dealt with 24 break-ins, of which 16 happened in Pembroke, between December 22 and 28. Eight people were arrested for drink driving in the same period, with 30 road accidents taking place, nine of which resulted in injuries.