Blitz on binge drinking

Around 20 licensees are working together to curb the problem by looking at the drinks promotions they all offer.

All of the licensees signed a charter last Wednesday which aims to reduce the levels of violence and alcohol-related crime in the town centre.

Pubs and clubs which have signed up must demonstrate a responsible attitude towards drinking, including no more "all you can drink" for a fixed entry fee promotions, no drinking games involving speed drinking and no rewards or prizes of free alcoholic drinks.

It also requires staff to be trained in aspects of the licensing law and to adopt a proactive drug policy, including searches when necessary, to ensure a safer environment for customers.

Mike Webb, Worthing licensing officer, said: "It is essential that we in Worthing make inroads into reducing problems of violence and anti-social behaviour, much of which is related to the excessive consumption of alcohol. It's obvious that the licensed trade within the town has a large part to play. A central tenet of this is the Responsible Retailing Charter.

"I see this as playing a significant part in reducing excessive drinking. Licensees should be able to focus their attention on attracting customers to their particular venue because it is safe and attractive and enjoyable, rather than basing the attraction on tacky offers."

Recent research has revealed that more than 80 per cent of assaults and public order offences which have happened in the town since April have all been alcohol related. The survey also showed more than 60 per cent of alcohol-related arrests involved young people under the age of 24 years and a significant number of those were under-age drinkers.

Chief Inspector Jason Taylor, Worthing's new district police commander, said: "The charter will help to ensure that licensees in Worthing can continue to profit from well run and ordered premises but highlights that they also have a responsibility to the community to bring to an end any problems of drunkenness and alcohol-associated violence and must work with the police and local authority to address them."

Borough councillor Tom Wye, chairman of the council's licensing committee, said: "I am delighted to express my total support on behalf of Worthing Borough Council for this important initiative and congratulate those licensees who have given their commitment to the charter. It is vital that licensees, Sussex Police and Worthing council all work together to do all that we can to tackle alcohol-related problems that blight our town."