Nothing to fear from booze ban

FAMILIES and groups enjoying picnics on the beach at Felixstowe will not be penalised for drinking alcohol this summer - as long as they behave themselves.

Residents and visitors have been assured the resort's new drinking in public laws will not be used against those who are acting responsibly and simply enjoying a quiet drink.

But those abusing the booze and causing trouble will be targeted by the police, who will be able to use the new powers to take away alcohol from troublemakers and arrest those concerned.

Mayor of Felixstowe Ann Rodwell welcomed the new orders, which will cover the seafront and its gardens, prom, beach, clifftops and car parks, the town centre, and Walton High Street.

“Most people are law abiding and this law will not affect them, but it will allow our police to deal with those who cause trouble by giving them the necessary powers,” she said.

“The town council wanted it in place to cover specific areas where we have had specific problems and where we consider there could be problems in the future.

“We want people to feel that they can come to Felixstowe and enjoy our lovely town in safety.”

Guy Richardson, Suffolk Coastal's community safety officer, said the project had been drawn up following anti-social behaviour problems around the leisure centre and pier.

Felixstowe police chief Insp Steve Gallant said officers would use their discretion but the new powers would help greatly to deal with certain alcohol-related problems.

More than 60 signs - paid for with help from Mrs Rodwell and county councillor colleague John Goodwin's locality budgets - are being put up around the resort.

In the designated areas police can require someone whose behaviour is deemed to be anti-social to stop drinking the alcohol and, if requested, hand over the drink.

Failure to comply could lead to the person being arrested, with a potential fine of up to £500.