DRINKERS beware - Trafford has its eye on you.

New powers mean Trafford council now has the authority to tackle anti-social drinking in designated public places and posters are now being displayed to highlight the issue.

Anyone who carries on drinking in an anti-social manner after being asked to stop by a police officer is committing an arrestable offence with the possibility of a fine of up to £500.

Councillor Pauleen Lane, executive member for environment and community safety, said: "We have worked hard with the police to introduce this order to help tackle alcohol related incidents across the whole of Trafford. Consultation at area boards has helped us identify local hot spots where drinking to excess has caused problems for local residents and businesses. Signs are going up across the borough but with particular emphasis at these hot spots.

"The order is not about stopping people having a beer with their picnic in the park or a quiet glass of wine at a pavement caf. It is about allowing the police to intervene when things are getting out of hand without waiting until the inevitable happens. It will also compliment our work to target underage drinking."

Chief Superintendent Alan Hutchings has welcomed the introduction of the order and stated that: "Alcohol is often the cause of violence and anti-social behaviour and we will use our new powers to target those areas greatest affected by this kind of disorder. The order is not intended to prevent the law abiding enjoying themselves but to protect the community as a whole from the minority of people who are responsible for alcohol related nuisance."

If you are being troubled by anti-social drinking contact the police on 872 5050 and ask for the Trafford area operations room.