Stags and hens face drink problem

Revellers who appear to be aged below 18 may face problems

Revellers on stag-dos and hen nights may find themselves without a drink because of an ongoing police crackdown.

Binge-drinking is being targeted in Bournemouth, Dorset, as part of a summer campaign that is seeing police keep a closer eye on pubs and clubs.

That means those who seem to have drunk too much or who look under-age are having a tougher time getting served.

Dorset Police have released a list of tips revellers should follow to enjoy stag and hen parties in the town.

We're certainly not trying to spoil people's fun or stop hen and stag parties coming to Bournemouth Police spokesman Nick Cloke

They say, to avoid disappointment, younger members should carry proof-of-age cards, clubs should be pre-warned of the arrival of large groups and everyone should pace their drinking.

Return taxis should also be pre-booked, hotels should be close to the town and everyone should simply walk away from potential street fights, they urge.

Spokesman Nick Cloke said: "It's all about making sure people can have an enjoyable time by remaining safe.

"We're certainly not trying to spoil people's fun or stop hen and stag parties coming to Bournemouth."

Since the crackdown got under way in Bournemouth in July the number of violent drunks arrested on Friday and Saturday nights has risen by 34%.

Licensees who break the law risk fines, 24-hour closures and prosecution, police say.

Officers have been carrying out test-purchases and have been on extra nighttime patrols.