ROWDY behaviour, bad language and drunkenness on Tenbury streets have forced councillors to seek new powers of control.

Increasing concerns about street drinking and anti-social behaviour in the town led to them suggesting a new bylaw be put before the Home Office, giving police added powers of prevention.

Draft plans banning on-street drinking, particularly in Teme Street and The Burgage, will give police powers of arrest if drinkers refuse to ditch their alcohol when told.

The issue has been on and off the town council agenda for some time and is to be pushed through as soon as agreement over streets and places to be affected is reached.

Landlords are said to be supporting the proposals, which could take up to nine months to come to fruition. Private streets and premises are not included.

Malvern Hills district councillor Chris Dovey led the call for more protection. "We have had complaints and offenders have to be stopped," he said.

"The bad language and rowdiness is more active after European Championship football matches, when large groups of youngsters who have been drinking spill out of the pubs and on to the streets and intimidate shoppers and motorists."

While residents and businesses appreciate the motivation behind the proposals, local traders fear there are not enough police on the streets to cope.

"New legislation for the prevention of public disorder does help," said Sgt Graham Lindup, of West Mercia police.

"The order will apply to designated streets and areas and is applicable to persons causing public disorder and refusing to dispose of the alcohol if asked to do so. It is then that the offence is committed."

Tenbury Mayor, Councillor Peter Mound, said: "This has been on the cards for some time and can only be good for Tenbury. Once the fine details have been agreed we will proceed with our application to the Home Office."