Oswestry licensees work with police to tackle disorder

Police Licensing Officer, Tony Mantle, said late night trouble – often alcohol related - has been on the increase and positive action is required to tackle the problem.

He said: “We see this as an opportune moment to address the issues and I am glad to say five or six premises in the town centre have already come on board by entering into an agreement with the police.

“A series of measures are being introduced from April 1 which will see late night premises close their doors at 2.30am, smaller measures of alcohol will be served from 3am onwards, after 3.20am only one drink per person will be served and all sales of alcohol will stop at 3.30am.”

Already signed up to the new scheme are the Kings Head, Gibsons, Ironworks, Boars Head, Wilfred Owen and the Vaults.

Mr Mantle said: “It’s important to emphasise that every premises selling alcohol, including supermarkets and off licences, have to take a share of responsibility”.

He added: “I recognise that all licensed premises will contribute in some way to problems that can be experienced late at night. As a consequence, I have written to every licensee in the town asking them to consider their trading hours, their food and drink offer and to highlight the issues.

“I have also encouraged them to join and support the Pubwatch scheme under which anyone causing trouble is likely to end up being barred.”

Carlton Leonard, who runs Gibsons nightclub, said: “We understand the police position and recognise we need to do our bit as responsible licensees. These half dozen premises cannot shoulder the burden alone. Other premises in the town must recognise they have a role to play.”

Inspector Rik Klair, the town’s police commander, added: “Not everyone goes out at the weekend intent on causing trouble. It’s a small minority and it is those people we will target. Overall, Oswestry is a good place to socialise and the partnership aims to make it even better."