ALCOHOL-fuelled incidents have been blamed for a 73% rise in the number of arrests for public disorder offences in Herefordshire.

Now Herefordshire Police has launched an operation to crack down on alcohol-related problems and anti-social behaviour across the county.

Police are concerned with the effects of binge drinking at premises running 'special offer' drink promotion nights.

Chief Inspector Adam Thomas, who is leading the operation, said: "Offers where drinks are 'on-tap' all night, for say a tenner, encourages people to get their money's worth and, in doing this, they are getting very drunk and, in a growing number of cases, disorderly."

A team of police officers will deal specifically with incidents that are related to disorder and anti-social behaviour.

Police will target pubs and clubs in Hereford City and market towns and patrol areas in the community where anti-social behaviour is a problem.

Officers will focus on 'hot spots' such as the Commercial Road area of Hereford, built-up areas on the outskirts of the city and in several villages across the county.

Police will to speak with local licensees in an effort to get them signed up to a voluntary code of conduct to cut the affects of binge drinking.

Licensees will be asked to take more responsibility for the drink promotions at their outlets.

"Disorderly behaviour is affecting the quality of life of everyone in the county - residents and visitors alike," said Chief Insp Thomas.

"We are just coming into the high tourist season when we get many people coming to Herefordshire to enjoy its beautiful scenery, market towns and historic city.

"The last thing we want is for them to be faced with drunken brawling in our streets and anti-social behaviour out in our communities."

Chief Insp Thomas said anti-social behaviour did not fit into the serious crime category but could have a devastating affect on the victims.

"It can be a nuisance or harassment such as verbal abuse or inconsiderate behaviour, graffiti or criminal damage - whatever the offence, we want to know about it so we can take action," he added.