LANDLORDS are calling time on troublemakers in pubs and clubs in a crackdown that has left drinkers crying in their pint.

The tough action across Stockton, Billingham, Thornaby and Yarm, means a ban imposed by one pub is a ban from all drinking spots in that town - and possibly the whole district.

Cleveland Police say the measures, enforced by the Pubwatch group, will have a drastic impact on customers who may be forced to drink at home.

PC Mark Hodgson, of the licensing unit, said: "This is the way to encourage sensible drinking and bring home to certain people that everyone should be able to enjoy a night out without encountering trouble.

"Landlords are beginning to recognise that, by acting together, they can be extremely effective in banning trouble-makers, not just from their pubs but from their town.

"The licensees hold meetings every three months, discuss cases and, in effect, become judge and jury on those customers who have displayed drunken, loutish and violent behaviour or caused criminal damage."

Bans range from six months to a lifetime exclusion, although the average is about five years.

The youngest person serving a ban is 17 and the oldest is 50.

Those tempted to ignore the ruling and try to get served face an anti-social behaviour order (Asbo).

Police in Stockton have been at the forefront of promoting sensible drinking with the acclaimed Operation Tranquillity.

The initiative saw pubs and clubs contribute towards the cost of having extra officers on the beat at night.

Sergeant Keith Daly said that, although people who are barred cannot be named, their pictures are circulated to pub staff so they are aware of who should not be made welcome.

"We send out a letter to those who the licensees decide should be barred. It informs them that if the ban is breached, we could take action against them with an Asbo.

"They have the right to appeal, and most do because the order devastates them.

"I have had people in tears when they realised they could not go drinking with their friends and either have to stay home or travel to another town."