Mike Craik launched a crackdown on drunken crime

Mike Craik claimed almost every act of violence his officers dealt with was fuelled by drink.

He spoke out against young drinkers after a Newcastle councillor called for under 21s to be banned from the city centre pubs.

Two years ago, Mr Craik launched a campaign called The Party's Over to crack down on drink-related violence.

Speaking on Friday, he said: "The legal age for drinking in public should be raised from 18 to 21.

"This is in the streets and in parks, rather than in pubs and clubs. I also think there should be a ban on advertising alcohol and a ban on alcopops.

"Cheap promotional offers on drink in pubs and supermarkets should also be banned."

His comments came after councillor Ian Proud raised the idea in response to booze-fuelled anti-social behaviour.