A MARKET town has revived its Pubwatch scheme in an attempt to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

Landlords and licensees hope to make pubs in Pickering safer, and have joined forces with police to bar anyone who assaults a member of staff or customer, uses or sells drugs or damages property.

Anyone barred from one pub will be barred from all others that are part of the Pubwatch scheme, for an indefinite period depending on the severity of the offence.

The Picking Pubwatch is backed by a ring-round scheme, which allows members to effectively share information about criminal or anti-social behaviour with each other and North Yorkshire Police.

PCSO Anne Simpson said problems relating to violence, criminality or disorder on licensed premises had now reduced due to the increased communication between the police and members of Pubwatch.

She said: “Since I was asked by North Yorkshire Police to revitalise this scheme earlier in the year I have been shown a lot of support by our licensees.

"I look forward to helping make 2015 a very good year for all.”

Pubwatch schemes work closely with North Yorkshire Police who provide confidential photographs to assist with staff identifying customers who are barred.

Members meet regularly to discuss issues relating to social responsibility and the safety of its customers and visitors to the area and look to how licensees can work together to create an environment whereby local businesses can benefit and prosper by reducing crime related issues.

Inspector Andy Everitt, head of Ryedale Police, said: “I am delighted that licensees, managers and door-staff in Pickering are making a collective commitment to reduce incidents of alcohol related crime and disorder in our towns through the Pubwatch scheme.

"North Yorkshire Police will continue to work closely with scheme members to reduce incidents and target offenders.”

He added: "Active Pubwatch schemes such as this play a key part in promoting Pickering as a safe place in which to enjoy a good night out and I am hopeful that more people will come in and experience what the towns have to offer.

"Violent crime in Ryedale is very low compared to the national picture however we have managed to further reduce reported incidents in 2014 with much of this attributable to effective targeting of night time economy related violence.

Insp Everitt said: "The message is clear, you are not welcome in our town’s licensed premises if you cannot manage yourself properly, display good citizenship and have consideration for others."