Poor choices over Cup Match may lead to “long-term ramifications”, the Bermuda Police Service and their community partners reminded the public yesterday.

Speaking at Somerset Cricket Club, Superintendent Sean Field-Lament urged partygoers “to be safe and act responsibly” during the holiday, “whether you are on land or sea”.

“We’re asking the public’s assistance in making this a safe and enjoyable holiday,” he added. “Think of others and report any suspicious activity. If you see something, say something.

“As there are a number of events taking place over this four-day holiday weekend, you will see a robust police presence throughout the island. These high-visibility patrols are there to ensure public safety.

“We will be using all our lawful powers to assist in policing over the holiday period and will be seeking to specifically address those members of our community who may wish to destruct our holiday with acts of antisocial behaviour or criminality. This may include stop-and-search engagements.”

The Bermuda Road Safety Council and Cada were also at the cricket club and highlighted the dangers of drinking and driving and the importance of taking a bus or taxi, or having a designated driver, if you intend to drink alcohol.

The Road Safety Council will have a tent at the club’s grounds and will be offering water to encourage healthy hydration. An alcohol and prevention team from Cada will be vigilant during the first day of Cup Match with their targeted location being Horseshoe Bay. A designated wristband will be required to purchase and/or consume alcohol.

Alfred Maybury, the president of Somerset Cricket Club, said: “On behalf of the hosts of Cup Match this year, we want to invite everyone to Cup Match but recognise that we are coming to celebrate our heritage as well as enjoy a wonderful game of cricket.

“We will have security in place to ensure that everyone who attends the grounds feels and is safe. We will also be making sure that no one brings items into the grounds that should not be here.

“If you are a Somerset fan get ready for a great celebration as we have our hat-trick this year. So come, enjoy and recognise that we are making every effort and taking all steps to ensure that everyone who enters the grounds is safe and has and wonderful holiday.”