New laws give police the power to confiscate alcohol from people caught drinking in town streets in Allerdale.

The move comes after a growing number of complaints about anti-social behaviour and disturbances in West Cumbrian town centres.

The ban has been in force in the neighbouring area of Copeland for two years where it has proved a success.

The move has been welcomed by Allerdale councillor Phil Tibble.

'Discretionary powers'

He said: "A high incidence of violent crime and assaults at night in town centres are fuelled by over indulgence in alcohol.

"The new laws will give police discretionary powers to nip problems in the bud if they see people drinking in the street.

"They will be able to confiscate their drink, move them on or ask them to go back into the pub."

Louise Kelly, community safety officer, said: "The ban in Copeland has been very successful reducing the number of drink-fuelled assaults."

The ban, which comes into force on Wednesday, covers most town centres in Allerdale, except Maryport and Great Broughton.