A CAMPAIGN urging Trafford partygoers to Think Safe Drink Safe' this festive season has been launched.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) are reminding people celebrating this Christmas to take simple precautions in order to stay safe.

A GMP spokesperson said: "We want to make sure that people have a great time and make the most of the night life across Greater Manchester but do so in a safe and responsible manner.

"Our message is simple; that sticking with friends, pacing drinks and planning to get home safely will reduce the risk of falling victim to crime."

Officers will also be asking people not to leave themselves vulnerable to sexual assaults by night-hiking'.

GMP are using the term to refer to people who get unsafe transport home, including trying to get into vehicles that have stopped at traffic lights.

Mirror stickers, posters and decorations are being displayed in licensed premises across Greater Manchester, bearing safety messages such as take a taxi you can trust' and friends, stay together, stay safe'.

Heat-activated urinal stickers revealing the slogan: rape - small word, long sentence' have also been placed in men's toilets in pubs and clubs across the area.

GMP have issued the following tips for a good, safe night out: Pace drinks and have plenty of water: * Always eat something prior to going out. This will soak up the alcohol.

* Friends stay together: Don't wander off from your friends without letting anyone know where you are going and arrange a meeting point in case you do become separated.

* Walk away from trouble: Be polite if you bang into somebody, or spill a drink. If someone becomes aggressive, walk away from the trouble.

* Take safe transport: Pre-book a taxi, and arrange to be picked up from a well-lit meeting point.

* If not possible to pre-book, choose staffed taxi ranks.

* If by yourself, only use reputable taxi companies or black cabs, not private hire cars.

* Night bus: Night buses run until around 3am in parts of Greater Manchester, try to catch one at a stop with bus loaders, or if that is not possible, a well-lit bus stop.

* If alone, sit close to the driver and avoid the upper decks.

* Walking: Walking home alone should only be a last resort. Walk in the middle of the road and face ongoing traffic where you can be seen.

* If you think you are being followed, cross the street several times if necessary. If you still think you are being followed, walk to the busiest area you can find or knock on somebody's door.