Drink ban in town centres

A BAN on public drinking in the centres of seven towns in Angus was yesterday approved by Kenny MacAskill, the Scottish Justice Minister.

Under the new bye-law, being introduced by Angus Council, on-street consumption of alcohol will be outlawed from 29 September in Arbroath, Brechin, Carnoustie, Forfar, Kirriemuir, Monifieth and Montrose town centres.

It will become a criminal offence to drink in public with offenders caught consuming alcohol in designated areas facing a fine of up to £500.

Mr MacAskill said: “Public drinking is often a nuisance and can greatly hamper the quality of life for residents.”