Suffolk's police and crime commissioner has slammed "unacceptable" behaviour after it was revealed that more than 300 drunk and disorderly arrests were made in the county last year.

Suffolk Constabulary made 311 drunk and disorderly arrests in 2022, up from 246 in 2021, though that year's data was affected by Covid lockdown restrictions.

Chief Inspector Andy Pursehouse, of Suffolk police, said: "Suffolk police are committed to ensuring that our night-time economy is safe for everyone.

"We work closely with partners and licensed premises to look after vulnerable people and deal with any incidents of drunken behaviour and violence.

"We adopt a proportionate approach to drunken behaviour but will deal robustly with those who put the safety of others at risk."

The county's police and crime commissioner Tim Passmore said he supports the force's "tough approach" to the matter, adding: "We know drunkenness often leads to violence and other serious offences which cannot be tolerated.

Ipswich Star: Tim PassmoreTim Passmore (Image: SPCC)

"General disorder can also spoil the atmosphere and general ambience for vistors while adversely affecting the area's reputation which is no good for anyone, including local businesses."

Mr Passmore pointed toward the Safer Streets funding, which he says has made a "significant difference" to this form of anti-social behaviour in Ipswich.

In July, it was announced that Suffolk's new £1.4million share of the government's Safer Streets funding would see a crackdown on anti-social behaviour, theft and violence against women and girls.

Mr Passmore must submit his proposals for how the cash will be spent by Tuesday, August 29.

READ MORE: Ipswich knife incident prompts stop and search debate

As long as these proposals meet the requirements of the Safer Streets Fund, delivery of these as yet unannounced projects will be expected to begin in October this year and are expected to finish up no later than March 2025.