DRINKING in the street is being banned in a York village, to help crack down on antisocial behaviour.

A council order issued today forbids the consumption alcohol in streets and outdoor areas in Strensall.

The order, which is currently subject to public consultation, has been passed following widespread complaints from local people about rowdiness.

More than 80 people attended a public meeting last autumn, to discuss antisocial behaviour in the village, with many feeling that the problems were down to under-age drinking.

The proposed order means police can ask anyone not to consume alcohol in the streets, and to confiscate any drink that is being consumed. Anyone failing to comply with these restrictions will be committing an offence, and can be fined up to £500.

Local councillor Madeleine Kirk, who chaired last autumn's meeting, said: "The meeting last September made it clear that much of the nuisance and disorder experienced by local residents was associated with drinking, and so, after agreement with the parish council, I asked city council officers to start the process of enforcing restrictions on alcohol consumption in Strensall.

* For more details see The Press today.