A SCHEME to stop alcohol being drunk in the streets of Accrington town centre is expected to come into effect from May 24.

Hyndburn Borough Council were meeting this evening to recommend the area be designated alcohol free in a bid to reduce the number of bottle and glass-related assaults.

The enforcement of the booze ban is similar to the 'Crystal Clear' initiative, launched last month in Blackburn.

It will accompanied by a similar advertising campaign using posters around the perimeter of the designated area as well as at 'hot spots' within the town.

The new provision for combating alcohol-related crime and disorder was introduced by the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2000. It replaced previous bylaws in some local authorities.

Under the new provisions, police will be able to ask people to stop drinking alcohol in specified areas and confiscate the drink. If they refuse to co-operate, they could face arrest which could then result in a fine of up to £500.

The scheme does not impose an absolute ban on alcohol but gives police a flexible power when needed.

Inspector Phil Cottom said: "There is a definable problem in this area which was chosen because of the number of incidents involving bottles and glasses.

"This scheme is not just about arresting people for drinking but about trying to educate people about the suffering caused by these type of offences."