COUNCILLORS in the Hambleton area have re-endorsed their commitment to a crackdown on drinking in public areas.

Cabinet members have confirmed that three designated public places will be created in the Applegarth and Bullamoor park areas of Northallerton, and High Green, in Great Ayton.

The orders prohibit the consumption of alcohol if the police feel there is a potential risk of disorder and allows them to take action against offenders.

The cabinet was asked to look again at the designations - originally made in December - by members of the cultural and social overview and scrutiny committee.

It wanted to see more orders made across the district and was concerned about the displacement of the problem into other areas of the towns.

But they were told that the Hambleton Community Safety Partnership had highlighted the three areas as having alcohol-related problems after collating evidence during the past six months.

"We are designating three areas highlighted as hot spots by the Police and Safety Partnership," said cabinet spokesman John Morley.

"They have repeatedly called for us to take some action and it is right that we do so. We will monitor the situation for six months and if new areas need to be included, we will look at that then."