BBC Home
Explore the BBC
BBC News
Launch consoleBBC NEWS CHANNEL
Last Updated: Monday, 25 April, 2005, 19:49 GMT 20:49 UK
Shops to ban booze for under 21s
Shops selling alcohol are being asked to join a scheme on Wearside to halt alcohol sales on Friday and Saturday nights to anyone aged 21 or under.

Northumbria Police's Over 21 Scheme aims to make it even harder for youths to con shopkeepers they are over 18.

Officers will also target off-licences and seize alcohol from under-age drinkers to help reduce anti-social behaviour in the city.

The scheme is part of Operation Gryphon to tackle anti-social behaviour.

The latest effort follows an increasing number of anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related crime at weekends, taking up police time.

'Restrict access'

Officers are highlighting areas where residents report most of the problems and police will pinpoint certain premises to be asked to help out in the Over 21 Scheme.

Posters will also be displayed in premises taking part.

Ch Insp Steve Hopkirk, said: "There is an obvious link between alcohol and disorder, especially amongst young people.

"By restricting access to alcohol it is likely to reduce levels of disorder and improve the quality of life for everybody."




SEE ALSO:
Visionary plan to curb disorder
06 Apr 05 |  Wear
Police target city youth disorder
19 Oct 04 |  Wear


RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites


PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

News Front Page | World | UK | England | Northern Ireland | Scotland | Wales | Politics
Business | Entertainment | Science/Nature | Technology | Health | Education
Have Your Say | Magazine | In Pictures | Week at a Glance | Country Profiles | In Depth | Programmes
Americas Africa Europe Middle East South Asia Asia Pacific