City works on image after stab attacks

YORKSHIRE’S BIGGEST city is working hard to maintain its image as a safe leisure destination in the wake of two stabbings.

City leaders say Leeds much culture and variety to offer despite two attacks in the city centre in as many weeks.

West Yorkshire Police, Leeds City Council, LeedsBID and other agencies are working towards the city retaining its Purple Flag status - an accreditation which recognises towns and cities for offering entertaining, diverse, safe and enjoyable nights out.

Leeds’ has held this status for two years and it is to be reviewed in October, with a decision in January.

But it comes after a third arrest was made in connection with a stabbing in the city centre in the early hours of Saturday at Bridge End.

The previous weekend there was a stabbing at the junction of Call Lane and Duncan Street.

Karen Butler, head of place management and delivery for LeedsBID (Business Improvement District), said: “Some cities have lost theirs and that is not a position that we want to be in.”

Referring to the incidents she said Leeds “was not unusual” compared to other large cities and the Purple Flag application is an opportunity to review systems in place.

Last year this led to the introduction of evening ambassadors who work until 4am to offer help and advice to revellers.

The Purple Flag reviews five areas such as making destinations safe and welcoming, movement from one part of the city to another, appeal for different ages, groups and cultures and how places link day to nightlife.

She added: “Work around Purple Flag is very much about improving the perception of safety and the evening ambassador scheme is working very well.”