POLICE are hoping to crackdown on alcohol-induced violence in Skipton in the run-up to the festive season.

Sgt Steve Breen has drawn up an action plan, which includes better utilisation of CCTV and the active policing of designated "no drinking" areas.

He has also put forward long-term suggestions for which he needs the support of agencies, such as the licensees' STAND (Stop Trouble and Night-time Disorder) group.

His long-term ideas include:

o talks with the local authority with a view to removing or altering the wall opposite Bliss so that it cannot be used as a seat. In the past it has proved a flashpoint for trouble.

o improving the service standards of licensed premises staff.

Using STAND, Sgt Breen wants to reinforce the importance of demanding proof of age, refusing entry and service to drunk people and preventing glasses and drinks being taken from premises.

He also wants door staff to be pro-active and prevent incidents by early intervention. For instance he would like to see staff walking down the queues particularly outside Bliss to identify potential problem individuals.

o increasing the frequency and quality of licensed premises visits, both unannounced and planned.

o checks of late night fast food establishments.

o arranging for off-licences - including supermarkets - to issue sensible drinking leaflets with each sale of alcohol.

o having road policing vehicles, with video capabilities, in the relevant areas at peak times; and

"The proposals are an extension and a widening of the efforts already made towards making the town centre an even safer place," said Sgt Breen.