The new public order will give North Wales Police on-the-spot powers to deal with offenders.

Rhyl has attracted the wrong image

The scheme has been welcomed by local traders and councillors as a step in the right direction to improving the image and safety of the town.

Denbighshire councillor Dale Morris said the new by-law gave police clear powers for the first time.

"Before now, the police could not really do anything about it," he said.

"Now they can, if need be, prosecute people.

The drinking has been a blight on the area and it can sometimes be frightening

Hafwen Davies, Rhyl resident

"They will have the right to stop people drinking in public places."

Dafydd Timothy, who runs bookshop Siop y Morfa in the town centre, said it was a positive move.

"I am glad that the council have at last addressed the problem, one that has been around the town for some years," said Mr Timothy.

Negative image

"It is good to see that something is being done about anti-social drinking at midday on street corners, which has created a bad impression of Rhyl.

"That image is not altogether the town's own making, but this will help to clear things up in more than one way," added Mr Timothy.

"It will also make the town centre more comfortable for people to walk round."

Town centre resident Hafwen Davies said: "I think it is an excellent idea and it is about time there were improvements.

"The drinking around the railway station and town hall has been a blight on the area and it can sometimes be frightening."