If you’re aged between 18 and 21 and looking to buy alcohol in Ventnor on a Friday or Saturday night, be aware of changes being introduced next week.
From Friday 30th October, Ventnor off licences are joining a scheme initiated by Isle of Wight Council and Hampshire Constabulary aimed at tackling alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.
We understand that the scheme is already running in Ryde, Sandown and Shanklin and prohibits anyone under 21 years old to buy alcohol on Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm until closing time from retailers signed up to the scheme.
We’re told that there has been a reported reduction in problems outside the shops.
Sergeant Richard Stapleton, who leads Hampshire Constabulary’s South Wight Safer Neighbourhoods team, said “We are committed to preventing alcohol related crime in Ventnor by targeting problem areas at the right times. Working in partnership with local shops, pubs and off licences can deliver significant improvements.
“Powers under the Confiscation of Alcohol Act and the Violent Crime Reduction Act are being used successfully already. Street drinking by those under age or anyone who intends to act in an anti social manner will not be tolerated in Ventnor. We welcome this initiative, which will be an important addition to our existing work.”
