POLICE in south Worcestershire say that fears of an influx of drunken violence and under age drinking in the wake of new licensing laws have so far proved to be unfounded - though they will not be letting down their guard.

A week after the new laws came into effect, making alcohol available almost around the clock in Evesham, officers say that the impact has not been as great as some anticipated.

Sgt Peter Hughes, alcohol enforcement officer for West Mercia Constabulary, said: "The extended hours have not impacted as some thought they might.

"Having said that, it was only the first weekend and we will continue to monitor the changes and respond quickly to any incidents that might result.

"As usual, we will be on the streets - and will continue to work closely with the owners and managers of licensed premises. We are confident that we have the facilities to deal with any increases in alcohol-related offences before, during and after Christmas and New Year's Eve."

Meanwhile, Wychavon District Council has signed up to a multi-agency agreement to make sure that new licensing laws are enforced effectively.

The council has joined the police, trading standards, fire services and other councils in the Memorandum of Understanding and Joint Enforcement Protocol which will also look at the issues of noise and under age sales.

Steve Jordan, Wychavon's head of environmental services, said: "It is important that we work closely with our partners to support local businesses whilst ensuring that the licensing objectives are met and the new laws are enforced fairly."

Wychavon has issued new licenses to all premises which applied as well as 500 personal licenses across the district.

Mr Jordan continued : "We may have issued all our licenses but our efforts to make sure the new system works continue."