WYTHALL police have backed plans to introduce the first alcohol ban in the village.

Wythall Parish Council is keen to introduce the alcohol-free zone, covering Drakes Cross shopping parade, after youngsters have been spotted hanging around the area drinking and making a nuisance.

Parish council clerk Pat Harrison is now writing to Bromsgrove Council requesting the ban, which could take months.

Bromsgrove Council community safety officer Graham Rocke said the first alcohol-free zones set up in the district, in Stoke Prior, had been a success.

He added: "In Stoke Prior, the parish council and local police beat manager joined forces and wrote to residents who lived on the fringes of the area which they wanted to make into an alcohol-free zone so they were aware and left it open for any objections.

"Once support was gained, a legal process was started before notices were put up in the area. It doesn't take a huge amount of time but months instead of weeks."

"I'm sure a ban in Drakes Cross would have the same sort of support," added Mr Rocke.

If the scheme goes ahead, Wythall police would have to play a huge role in policing the area so any prosecutions, which could mean a fine of up to £500, are enforced.

Wythall beat manager Pc Mark Townsend said the police would support an alcohol- free zone at the shopping parade.

"We would support it but it's very early days. We need to investigate what crimes have been committed in the area and look at the figures we have before we go any further," Pc Townsend added.