People who don't stop drinking when asked can face arrest

The move is part of a campaign to cut down on anti-social behaviour.

The Designated Public Places Order gives police officers the power to stop anyone drinking alcohol in certain areas from Thursday.

Dover District Council said drinking alcohol in public was not an offence, but anyone refusing a police request to stop drinking could be arrested.

Police enforcement

A council spokesman said the order followed an analysis of crime patterns and extensive public consultation.

Any enforcement of this law is carried out entirely at the discretion of the police, he added.

The order covers the urban areas of all three towns, as well as surrounding villages such as Ash, Eastry, Temple Ewell and Wingham.

Signs are being placed in all areas affected.