UNANIMOUS opposition to the introduction an alcohol-free zone in the the centre of Upton was voiced by the town council on Tuesday (October 15).

It followed condemnation of the plan by Bill Dovey, head of the tourism and trade association.

The council agreed to write opposing the ban to Malvern Hills District Council and the police.

Mayor Eric White told the meeting that the proposal would see most of the town centre streets, including Old Street and Waterside, off limits to drinkers in a bid to halt the increase in alcohol-related crime.

Coun Roger Barker said that in order to enforce it a police presence would be required, which would immediately solve any problems on its own.

"I can't see how it would be of any benefit," he said.

Coun Tina Marshall described the proposed rules as "draconian" and said that under-age drinkers, not legitimate pub users, were to blame for the problem.

However, a police proposal to limit the times street food traders can operate did find support.