PUBLICANS are pulling together to rid themselves of trouble-makers.

Customers causing trouble or starting fights will find themselves banned from every pub in Northwich

The scheme was set up by Louisa Allsobrook, area manager for Inn Partnership. She explained: "I installed this system in Shropshire, and it proved completely successful.

"People who fight in pubs these days use bottles, they use knives, they're perhaps on drugs. So obviously licencees fear reprisals when they take action to remove them.

"We want to create a safe environment where everyone can can have a night out in comfort."

Bans, which will be agreed at publicans' meetings, will be between six months and three years. But Louisa says the scheme aims to keep drinkers out of trouble.

She added: "It's more a deterrent because no-one likes the shame of seeing their name on a list above the bar.

"We hope it stops trouble from happening in the first place."

The idea has been greeted warmly.

Pam and David Hubbard are the licensees of the Green Dragon in Witton Street. Pam said: "We just don't need the trouble these days. This is a brilliant idea."

Customer Anne Lightburn agreed.

"You don't want to see fighting in the pub when you're just out for the night," she added. "It's the best idea I've heard for ages."

The scheme's slogan is Don't Ruin Your Millennium, which trouble-makers will, even if they're banned for the minimum period.

But it's not aimed at punishing the unfortunate soul who has one too many.

"The system won't pick on Joe Nice who knocks over a table or shouts something a bit silly," said Louisa.

"But it will serve as a warning that they won't get away with it regularly."

The scheme, which is already backed by 25 pubs, also has the full support of Northwich police.

Louisa added: "We are extremely sorry if we have missed any pubs out. If we have, they should contact us immediately.

"I think we can make this very successful indeed."

To sign up, ring Louisa on 0870 241 2003.

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