A HOMELESS man found drunk in Worcester's alcohol-free zone has been ordered to pay more than £700 by magistrates.

Patrolling police officers found Donald Cook drinking cider next to the public toilets in the city's Corn Market on Monday, September 24.

Worcester City Council made the area a no-alcohol zone in 1998 following a number of complaints.

Wendy Rushton, prosecuting for the city council which brought the charges, said Cook had been told the area was a no-drinking zone and asked to stop.

She added the 52-year-old was cautioned by the officers but was found drinking at the same spot shortly afterwards.

"The area was made a no-drinking zone by Worcester City Council in 1998 after it received a number of complaints from people living and working in the area," she said.

"People had had enough excessive drinking within the area so the bylaw was passed.

"But the defendant failed to abide by the bylaw."

Magistrates fined Cook, of no fixed abode, £500 and ordered him to pay £236 in costs.

After the hearing Mrs Rushton said the result had demonstrated the council's determination to stamp out the problems caused by those who drink excessively in the city.

She warned others who flouted the bylaw could also expect to be brought in front of magistrates and face heavy fines.

"The council is dedicated to stopping the problem of noise and nuisance within the city caused by people who drink excessively," she said.

"It is not fair on those who live or work in the area, and by taking action against offenders we believe we are making life for the people of Worcester much more pleasant."

Georgia Smith, manager of the City Centre Forum, said she was delighted with the result and said she was pleased to see the bylaw being used against those who drank in the city.

"This is one of several successful prosecutions by the city council," she said.

"The substantial fine imposed should act as a deterrent to those who may be tempted to break the bylaws."