STREET boozers in Leigh town centre are being interviewed by charity workers as the bye-law booze ban takes another step forward.

Alcohol abusers are being talked to as part of the process of bringing in the bye-law to stop anti-social drinking in public places in Leigh centre.

Workers at Manchester-based Lifeline Project have been approaching street drinkers to assess their needs to go into a report to be considered by the Home Office.

A spokesman for Wigan Council, which is backing the bye-law, said: "This is an essential and required part of the consultation process as recommended by the Home Office.

"It will ensure we have considered all aspects of the alcohol bye-law.

"The research will provide some insight into the behaviour, experience and needs of these people and how all our services may support them once an alcohol ban is introduced."

The report will be published in April before a final request for the bye-law is lodged at Home Office minister Jack Straw's office.