FOUR communities have been assured a tougher stand on alcohol-related crime will not mean a complete ban on drinking in public places.

Ryedale District Council has agreed to the principle of wide-ranging Alcohol Restriction Orders in parts of Malton, Norton, Pickering and Kirkbymoorside.

The regulations have yet to be publicised and, if there are any objections, the authority would have to consider them before making a decision.

Consultation so far suggests widespread public support for the proposals which will give police the power to confiscate alcohol from underage drinkers or anyone else who is making a nuisance of themselves in the designated areas.

However, it has been stressed that law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear and the regulations do not amount to a blanket ban on drinking in public.

"People shouldn't panic," said Malton town centre manager, Peter Mudge. "We have made great strides in tourism recently and we would like to think that the town will be welcoming more people in future, not scaring them away.

"Of course, we need to be sure the police have the powers necessary to deal with any situation which may arise, but we have had very little trouble and would like to see more events in the area.

"No one should have anything to worry about, as long as they behave themselves."

The restriction orders have arisen from issues raised during the Safer Ryedale initiative, which established what changes people thought could improve the quality of life in the district.

Area police commander Inspector Neil Burnett accepted the areas earmarked for new orders were where problems had occurred in the past, but he confirmed police would not be adopting a zero-tolerance approach.

"We would describe the orders as discretionary," he said.

"If a family are enjoying a glass of wine and a picnic in the park, then it is likely they will be left alone.

"However, if it is a gang of youths who could become increasingly rowdy, then it is likely we will take a more proactive stance," he said