POLICE in Leigh are stepping up their campaign to clamp down on under age drinking.

And a task force is keeping close tabs on licensed premises to make sure they don't flout the law by selling liquor to those under 18 years of age.

Speaking at rteh rtown's annual licensing sessions, Senior Supt. Stuart Hindley said: "Publicans and those running licensed premises have a responsibility to the public and in cases where we see a breach of the law we will not hesitate to prosecute offenders."

He also reported that the number of drink driving offences in 1997 was down to 153 from 177 in 1996.

His strong words were backed by the magistrates who gave their support to police action and promised that anyone brought before them for drinking and driving offences could see themselves behind bars.

They also backed police efforts to encourage the widespread use of the Portman proof of age scheme which issues ID cards to those over 18.

This, the bench agreed, was a "admirable" scheme which they encouraged Supt. Hindley and his colleagues to pursue.

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