The drinking ban does not affect bars and clubs

The new street-drinking ban is part of the City Council's response to a reported 19% rise in violent crime.

The ban covers the streets in and around the centre, the old town and harbour side but not Broadmead.

It gives police powers to confiscate alcohol, bottles and glasses where they believe the drinker poses a threat to public safety.

The no drinking ban is a key tool for us to manage anti-social behaviour Inspector Mike Cox

The powers do not apply to continental-style drinking in designated areas covered by a pub or club's licence.

Signs highlighting the ban and ensuring drinkers are aware of the new rules are being installed throughout the city centre with more to come over the next few weeks.

The introduction of the ban follows the success of smaller schemes in St Jude's and Stoke Croft to the north of the city centre.

Inspector Mike Cox, for Avon and Somerset Police, said: "The no drinking ban is a key tool for us to manage anti-social behaviour."