PUB bosses face being named and shamed if they fail to control drunken and rowdy customers spilling out on to Bolton's streets.

Town hall bosses have unveiled new measures to keep a close watch on pubs and clubs when they take over licensing powers from magistrates this autumn.

The measures could see landlords placed on a list of shame if drinkers cause a nuisance to residents or businesses after last orders.

Problem licensees could have their licences revoked if they fail to take responsibility for troublemakers.

Local authorities have been told by the Government to prepare for the takeover of powers and will enter talks with police, breweries and licensees' groups to develop plans to deal with Britain's new drinking culture.

New "continental" drinking times are set to introduced over the next 12 months which could see pubs and bars open round the clock.

Council bosses today hailed the threat of revoking landlords' licenses - along with the new drinking times - as a weapon to banish the British binge drinking culture.

Cllr Frank White, Bolton's executive member for social inclusion and community safety, said: "Some landlords are aware of the problems and do their best to deal with it, but others turn a blind eye when the problem is out on the streets.

"We want to compile a list of the 10 worst-managed establishments. If they don't amend their procedures, then we will seek to revoke their licenses.

"We hope to try to get away from binge drinking and the culture of drinking against the clock." Cllr White said less strict opening hours would mean fewer people on the streets when pubs and club do shut.

"When people develop a sense that they don't need to be drink with one eye on the clock, we hope it will change the drinking culture," said Cllr White.

Changes to the licensing system will also make it easier for residents to appeal against applications.

Cllr White said: "People will be entitled to lodge an appeal with us if they are unhappy with the behaviour at certain licensed premises."

Supt Lee Bruckshaw of Bolton Police said: "We've been working with the council to make Bolton a safe and pleasant place for people to enjoy their nights out.

"We support anything which will help to decrease levels of violence and drunkenness."

But John Jewitt, landlord of town centre pub Ye Olde Man and Scythe and secretary of the Bolton Licensees' Alliance, said: "I would prefer to see something that goes the other way round and, instead of placing pubs on a blacklist, the council gives points for good behaviour.

"The licensees could then put a notice up to publicise that for themselves."