POLICE have launched a bid to crackdown on underage drinking in Suffolk this summer.They are reminding licensees of their legal responsibilities in relation to selling alcohol to those under 18 or those already drunk.

POLICE have launched a bid to crackdown on underage drinking in Suffolk this summer.

They are reminding licensees of their legal responsibilities in relation to selling alcohol to those under 18 or those already drunk.

An information booklet giving guidance to licensees is being distributed around premises in Ipswich, Sudbury and Hadleigh, with the aim of reducing alcohol-related disorder.

Police and trading standards will also be carrying out a range of enforcement activity through the summer months, including test purchasing at on and off licensed premises by underage people.

Superintendent Tim Beach, operations manager for the southern area of Suffolk, said: "The Government have made it very clear that licensed premises must do more to reduce alcohol-related disorder.

"We work closely with licensees through Pub and Clubwatch to ensure that through good management problems can be avoided.

"It is a criminal offence to serve alcohol to those who are underage and those who are drunk – all members of staff need to be briefed of their responsibilities."

Michael Collins, chairman of Ipswich Pubwatch, said: "Many of the pubs around the area have drink promotion tailor-made for the younger generation.

"It is important that bar staff question the age of the person buying drinks by asking for photographic ID and equally of those who are they are buying the drinks for. Where ID is not available they should refuse to serve them."

He added: "We also need to get the message across to parents – they should be questioning where their children are going and whether they will be drinking alcohol.

"It is important that we all work together to make Ipswich and the surrounding area a safe place to live and visit."