Police push for plastic glasses

Police in Northamptonshire are pushing for pubs and clubs to introduce polycarbonate glasses and bottles.

The move was discussed during a debate on Wednesday between police, health and licensed trade representatives from the county.

Sgt Mark Worthington said: "Alcohol-related violence is a problem at some locations in the county.

"The use of polycarbonate glasses and plastic bottles will significantly reduce the numbers of serious and maiming injuries which we have experienced in the past.

"We believe consideration ought to be given to licensing premises along the lines that drinks served after midnight should only be served in polycarbonate glasses or plastic vessels.

"The licensed trade understandably have expressed reservations around the cost of replacing glasses and any moves to get those who enjoy drinking out of glasses to change their habits.

"But by and large there is goodwill from licensees and of course it is in their best long-term interests to address this issue."

But Peter Heyworth, licensee at the Racehorse, Northampton, is not convinced a blanket ban on glass would be fair. He said: "Why should everyone be condemned to these measures, just because there is a few people who want to cause problems?

"We already have toughened glass and I don't think there should be legislation introduced."