Market town bans street drinking

A ban on drinking on the streets of Wetherby has been approved by Leeds City councillors.

Police and licensees have supported the ban, which will start on Wednesday, in a bid to crack down on drunken behaviour in the town.

The council said problems had been caused by people who drink as they move between bars in the town at night and by coach parties that stop in the town.

It is the first ban to be imposed by the council outside Leeds city centre.

Tackling problems

Offenders face on-the-spot fines of £40 or penalties of up to £500 if arrested and convicted.

The ban will cover all public highways, streets, byways and other public places within Wetherby town centre.

Leader of Leeds City Council Mark Harris said he was delighted the ban had been approved.

"I believe it will have a significant effect in tackling problems of drunken misbehaviour in the town," he said.