Drinkers who misbehave in Thetford's pubs and clubs are to face a six month or more ban under a new Pubwatch scheme being launched tomorrow night. Managers at all the town's licensed premises have joined forces to agree tough action to help curb alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour in the town.

Drinkers who misbehave in Thetford's pubs and clubs are to face a six month or more ban under a new Pubwatch scheme being launched tomorrow night.

Managers at all the town's licensed premises have joined forces to agree tough action to help curb alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour in the town.

Anyone who causes a problem in one place could see themselves banned from all other bars in the town

Pubwatch chairman, Clair Ramos of the Red Lion in Market Place, said: “Thetford's licensees are saying we've had enough of bad behaviour. It won't be tolerated and if you misbehave, you will be barred.

“We hope to eventually extend the scheme to off-licences and make it difficult for trouble-makers to obtain alcohol in the town. Thetford should be safe for all.”

It is hoped it will target persistent nuisance offenders and those involved in violence, criminal damage or anti-social behaviour.

Land lords and club owners will work with Breckland Council community safety and licensing officers as well as the police.

Each pub has a radio link to the police and Breckland Council's CCTV control room.

Supt Paul Wheatley said the scheme would compliment a number of on-going initiatives designed to keep alcohol-related crime down in the town centre.

He said although Thetford was a relatively safe place to live, 64pc of all crime in the town occurred at weekends.

Pubs involved are: The Bridge, Ice Nightclub, The Chase, Red Lion, Green Dragon, Norfolk Terrier, Rose and Crown, King's Head, Albion, Railway Tavern, The Warrener and Thetford Snooker Club.