The ban follows the introduction of a similar zone in Rochester

Police and wardens in Chatham now have the power to seize alcohol from people drinking in the High Street and surrounding areas of the town.

Officers will spend the next week handing out leaflets to members of the public and promoting the scheme.

It follows the introduction of a similar zone in Rochester that has been in place for more than three years.

Police have said the main problem is groups of people sitting on benches, drinking and being abusive to shoppers.

'Safer place'

The joint initiative by Kent Police and Medway Council follows extensive consultation with retailers.

The alcohol-free zones will be in operation 24 hours a day.

Ch Insp Des Skeers described it as a positive move for the town, which would make it an even safer place, and further extend its appeal to visitors.

"We intend to utilise other tools already in existence in the area, such as CCTV and high profile police patrols, so that we can monitor people's behaviour, intervene and prevent situations from escalating," he said.