Thirty people have been banned from visiting pubs and clubs in Burnham-On-Sea, Taunton and Bridgwater as part of a scheme to crackdown on pub violence and criminal behaviour in the area.
Somerset West Businesses Against Crime (SWBAC) runs the scheme in conjunction with local police and businesses and, as pubs gear up for a busy Christmas, it has warned revellers that violence will not be tolerated.
“Anyone caught engaging in offences such as assault, public order, criminal damage, sexual or domestic abuse offences, possession of controlled substances, or drink spiking will not only have to deal with criminal prosecutions but will also be excluded from all participating pubs in the three towns,” Andy Sharman, Scheme Co-ordinator for SWBAC, told Burnham-On-Sea.com.
“There are currently 30 individuals who have found their Christmas plans ruined by the exclusion and are left to sit at home and reflect upon the fun they could be having if they had not thrown that punch or carried drugs on them to a venue.”
Some of the local premises involved in the scheme are Burnham’s Victoria Hotel, the Old Pier Tavern, Reed’s Arms, Skye Bar, The Railway, Highbridge Social Club and Krackers in Brean.
SWBAC says the scheme aims to prevent offenders from engaging in conduct that can harm others and themselves. It also helps protect businesses from further criminal behaviour.
Andy added: “Burnham and the surrounding area offer a great night out with a wonderfully diverse range of venues to choose from.”
“The measures put into place by our members and the town centre police team ensure that we are doing all we can to make the town centre safe for all.”
“While we encourage all to come into the area and have a good time, we hope that all can do so in a responsible manner, not just to protect the community but to protect themselves from harm.”
