IT is one year since landlords in Culcheth, Glazebury and Croft joined forces to tackle troublemakers in the parish's pubs.

And it seems the Pub Watch scheme across the three villages is working better than ever.

Police say that crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour is down since 16 licensees got together to solve any pub related problems.

The Pub Watch in the three villages was set up with the help of Cheshire Police with the aim of providing a channel of communication between landlords.

Pubs also have the power to ban any drinkers causing trouble from entering the establishments.

Culcheth CSO Steve Dodd, who was instrumental in setting up the scheme, said: "It is going particularly well and I definitely think it has made a difference in the area."

Since the scheme started last June, six men have been barred from licensed establishments in Culcheth, Glazebury and Croft.

Four of those were after a violent incident on New Year's Eve when a fight broke out at the General Elliot in Croft. They were banned until Christmas.

CSO Dodd added: "We have definitely seen a reduction in crime associated with pubs in the area and the licensees still meet once a month to discuss any potential issues and make sure they are all still communicating with each other. Everyone's still very keen."