Street drinkers in Norwich who refuse to stop boozing in public are to be targeted in a clampdown by police.

Street drinkers in Norwich who refuse to stop boozing in public are to be targeted in a clampdown by police.

Police in the city said today that they would adopt a “robust” approach to enforcing special no-drinking orders in a bid to drive down anti-social behaviour as long summer nights approach.

The orders, in places across the city, make it an offence to drink in an area once an individual has been warned not to by officers.

Insp Nick Cheshire said: “We will take positive action against people who fail to comply with an officer's request to stop drinking and we will seize alcohol from people who we believe will continue to drink in public places. Penalty notices will be issued and, if necessary, offenders will be arrested.

“I recognise that some people we come into contact with do have long-term issues around alcohol.

“We are also trying to assist these individuals with getting help and support from our partner agencies that specialise in alcohol-related work.”

Original areas covered by the laws include the Jenny Lind Park, the Vauxhall Street area, and the Heigham Street play area. The new area is bounded by the ring road, St Stephen's Road, Arlington Lane, Newmarket Street, Gloucester Street, Unthank Road, Mill Hill Road, Heigham Road, Old Palace Road and Heigham Street.