Police in Havant can now confiscate alcohol from anyone who they believe is out to cause trouble.

Until now the ban applied only in the key town centre areas within the borough.

But that has now been extended to take in every road and park in the area.

Havant councillor Andy Lenaghan, who has responsibility for community safety, said: 'The introduction of a borough-wide order sends out a clear message that we want to promote a sensible drinking culture.'

Police say that the ban does not prohibit families enjoying a glass of wine or a beer while they picnic in a park or on the beach, but that it is aimed at targeting troublemakers.

Chief Inspector Will Schofield, of Havant police, said: 'Drinking in public places is a major factor in anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and nuisance and violent crime in public places.

'It also increases the fear of crime and acts as a catalyst for an increase in incidents of alcohol and drug abuse and more serious crimes.'

He said the new order would allow his officers to take the initiative in tackling street drinking.

'We treat each case on its merits and will only exercise these powers in relation to problem drinking – where it is accompanied by anti-social behaviour or disorder, or there is the likelihood of it happening.'

Tim Pointer, the community safety team leader for Havant Borough Council, said: 'Tackling street drinking and anti-social behaviour is a priority for us and the Safer Havant Partnership.

'Introducing an order covering the whole borough gives us the best chance of tackling alcohol-related crime and disorder. It means we are being consistent across the whole borough.'

He said the issue of anti-social drinking and the problems associated with it was consistently raised by residents as one of their greatest fears.