POLICE in Bolton and Bury are launching a crackdown on underage drinking as schools and colleges close for the Christmas holidays.

Officers will be stepping up patrols in and around the town centre to curb anti-social behaviour over the festive period.

A high profile police presence will be provided in areas where young people congregate, such as the bus and train stations.

Street drinking bans will be reinforced and anyone found drinking underage will have the alcohol confiscated and be fined.

Officers will also be gathering intelligence and taking action against licensed premises found to be illegally selling alcohol.

Chief Supt Dave Lea, of Bolton police, said: "We'll be carrying out checks with trading standards and the fire service on licenced premises such as pubs and nightclubs, as well as supermarkets and off-licences.

"Many supermarkets will only serve alcohol to people who can prove they are over the age of 21.

"We have a number of measures we can take to ensure businesses stay within the law. If we find premises serving alcohol to youngsters under the age of 21, we can close them for up to 24 hours."

"This operation is aimed at preventing and disrupting underage drinking and youth nuisance. We also want to offer reassurance to the public and send a clear message to offenders that their actions will not be tolerated."

The initiative is part of the Safer Bolton Strategic Partnership which is aimed at cracking down on alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.

People who drink too much and behave in a disorderly manner could face an £80 on the spot fine or be arrested as part of the initiative or both

The crackdown will also take place in Bury. Insp Martyn Stanhope said: "There is a minority of young people in Bury who take part in anti-social behaviour, often under the influence of alcohol, at this time of year and it will not be tolerated."