Police say the Challenge 21 scheme has been successful elsewhere

Licensees are being encouraged to ask anyone trying to buy alcohol, who looks under 21 years old, to prove they are at least 18.

The Challenge 21 initiative has been running successfully in other parts of Scotland, according to police.

The force said underage drinking can lead to vandalism, anti-social behaviour and is a safety risk.

'Well documented'

Insp Donald Thomson, who is in charge of policing in Forfar, said: "The problems associated with underage drinking are well documented and are no different in Forfar to many other places.

"While I am confident that pubs and clubs in Forfar are well run and there are no major problems of underage drinking in these premises, I am keen to see the Challenge 21 initiative adopted by all local licensees.

"As the father of teenage children, I realise it can be difficult at times to correctly judge the age of teenagers and I do appreciate the problems faced by licensees.