A BAN on street boozing in Bewdley has been a massive success, according to police.

Drink-related disorder has plummeted since the ban - which makes it an arrestable offence to carry open alcohol containers in the town centre - was enforced on July 3, said beat manager PC Nigel Barter.

PC Barter said the move had so far led to one arrest, for a breach of the peace while "numerous" others had surrendered drinks to police.

He said the ban - which can lead to a fine of up to £500 for anyone who refuses to hand over their booze - was proving an effective weapon in the war against yobbish behaviour.

He said: "The disorder figures are definitely down and the feedback we are getting from the public and from firms is very positive.

"That is not just measured by how many arrests we make but also how many calls we get from people regarding drink-related disorder."

Trouble hotspots along the River Severn had calmed down, according to vice president of the Bewdley Chamber of Trade, Colin Billingham.

He said: "The area down by the river is much better, a lot of the drinking there has ceased. We are very impressed."

Drew Clifford, landlord of the Mug House pub on Severnside North, which sits on the waterfront, said he had experienced "no problems whatsoever" since the ban was enforced and he said his home life near to Jubilee Gardens - a notorious town centre hangout for underage drinkers - was also "much quieter".

Mayor of Bewdley Jeremy Ferguson, who as a member of Bewdley Town Council fought to have the ban brought in, said: "It is having all the effects the police said it would. This was never intended as an absolute ban on anybody with a drink in their hand but to reduce aggravation in the town. It does seem to be doing that."