PUBS and bars in the Malvern area have been preparing for the change in licensing laws, which came into force yesterday (Thursday).

Olivers, on Belle Vue Terrace, will be open until 1am on Friday and Saturday, and 11pm on Sunday.

Owner Tony Wilkinson said: "We may also have an extension to midnight on Thursdays, if the demand is there."

Colin Robinson of the Lamb, West Malvern, said: "I can open to 1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays, but it depends what people want.

"Just because we can open longer doesn't mean people have more money in their pockets."

Andy Mapp, of the Express on Quest Hills Road, said he would be opening until midnight on weekdays and 12.30am at weekends, but closing the doors at 11pm.

The Nag's Head, on Bank Street, will be open until 11.30pm on Friday and Saturday, 10.45pm on Sunday and 11.15pm the rest of the week.

David Bratt, of the Three Horseshoes on Poolbrook Road, said he would be making no changes, staying open until 11pm on weeknights and 10.30pm on Sunday.

Clive Lloyd, of Malvern Hills District Council, said about 280 new licenses had been issued, covering everything from off-licences to pubs. About half have been granted some form of extension.

"The majority have got extensions to midnight in the week and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays," he said.

Police are prepared to cope with any increase in alcohol-fuelled crime and violence. Sgt Robert Werner de Sondberg said: "A Home Office initiative has been in place since November 14 to add additional patrols and record incidents of alcohol abuse."