Problems are not just ours (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Problems are not just ours

THE Advertiser's front page story on Aug 24, which looked at my ideas on how to tackle the problems associated with binge drinking, created the impression they were made specifically about Swindon.

In fact, they were made about the UK as a whole, in response to a Government request for licensing officers across the country to give their views on proposed new legislation.

There is no doubt that, in common with almost every town in the country, Swindon has a problem with alcohol-related disorder but it is important to put this into perspective.

While I don't doubt the genuineness of people's fears, Swindon has much less of a problem than many places, and the crime statistics bear this out.

Most licensees in the town are fully aware of their responsibilities and do what they can to minimise drunkenness and hooliganism.

Swindon Borough Council was running a licensing scheme for door supervisors long before it was made compulsory by Government.

Nonetheless, it is good this debate is getting a wider airing and hopefully everyone's desire for safer town centres at night will be met.

L STARLING

Licensing Officer

Swindon Borough Council