PEOPLE caught drinking alcohol on the streets of Leigh could soon face prosecution.

The move was revealed at the annual magistrates' licensing meeting when it was reported that more women are appearing before the courts for drink related offences than ever before in Leigh.

Bolton already has a by-law banning the drinking of alcohol in public places in the town centre. In his annual report to the licensing bench at Leigh, Senior Superintendent Stuart Hindley said a similar move was under consideration in the town. He reported that 18 women were convicted last year for drink driving, an increase of six on the previous year. Eight women were convicted of drunkenness compared with only two the year before.

But the number of men convicted of drink driving fell from 192 to 177, and there 73 appeared for drunken behaviour compared with 74 the year before.

Supt Hindley said: "Concern has been expressed about the anti-social behaviour resulting from drinking in the street in certain areas, and proposals are being put forward to introduce a by-law banning such activity. "However before we venture down this path I feel more research is required, especially with regard to the need for such legislation, its wider implication and the issue of enforcement."

He went on: "We all need to continue in partnership and explore new ways to improve and project the borough's image in a positive manner for the benefit of the whole community.

"Therefore the police, together with other agencies, are currently working to promote a safer and more attractive environment within town centres.

"The concept of a '24 hour city' has been put forward involving proposals to stagger the terminal hours of certain late-night premises."

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