Drinking alcohol in some public areas is being banned

The so-called "booze-ban" is to be enforced in Epworth after complaints about rowdy behaviour, broken glass and dumped beer cans.

North Lincolnshire Council is also calling time on street drinkers in nearby Crowle, Ealand and Bottesford.

Methodism celebrated the 300th anniversary of Wesley's birth last year. Many Methodists do not drink.

Effective deterrent

The moves are the first street drinking bans to be put in place in North Lincolnshire.

Coun Don Stewart, the council leader said: "The bans will act as an effective deterrent to those who cause a nuisance by drinking in public places.

"Public places are for the enjoyment of all people, but a small minority are ruining their enjoyment, and that is not acceptable."

Ch Supt Graham Di Duca added: "When large groups congregate in public areas and are involved in drinking alcohol their behaviour can quickly become threatening and intimidating.

"Alcohol is often a catalyst to anti-social and criminal behaviour. This ban is a common sense approach to tackle a community problem."

In Epworth the bans apply to: Market Place, Albion Hill, Mowbray Street, Queen Street, Chapel Street, Kings Head Croft Car Park, Hollingsworth Lane, High Street, Battle Green and Station Road from its junction with High Street to its junction with Battle Green (west).

Crowle and Ealand: Crowle Park (Johnson's Lane), Ealand Park, Jubilee Gardens, Potts Lane Car Park and Market Square.