PUBS and clubs in Bury could be held more accountable for drink-related injuries, if proposals by a senior north west doctor are taken up.

Dr John Ashton, regional director for public health, says that licensees should have to demonstrate responsibility before being granted any extension to opening hours.

The call comes ahead of government proposals to liberalise licensing laws.

As part of his recommendations, Dr Ashton proposes that all patients sustaining alcohol-related injuries be asked where they were served their last drink.

The cost of gathering the information should be passed on to the drinks industry, he adds.