Fake ID holders to face two-year ban

Underage drinkers attempting to use fake ID in Scunthorpe town centre could be banned from all pubs and clubs for two years after their 18th birthday.

The policy is the brainchild of Scunthorpe Pubwatch and has been backed by police. It represents a first genuine attempt to hit back directly at those using fake ID.

"This has come about because of the large number of people attempting to use fake IDs and altered driving licences and passports in the town centre," said Pubwatch chairman Darren Harpham.

"It is a step forward as in the past I don't think the police were too concerned about stopping those people using fake IDs; the focus was more on the licensee."

Licensees have begun seizing fake IDs and sending them to licensing officer PC Martin Garfitt. Police then issue a yellow card warning to offenders - if they repeat the offence they could be hit with a two-year ban from all 26 licensed premises when they turn 18. Harpham has already seized 14 fake IDs at Time nightclub, which he manages.

Garfitt said: "It is one way we can help licensees rather than hinder them."

Dave Daly, Blackpool licensee and president of the National Association of Licensed House Managers, said: "I think it's a fantastic idea. We have a lot of young people who come to Blackpool trying to use fake ID. I'm going to put it to

my Pubwatch and I hope it gets passed."

A statement from National Pubwatch welcomed the action but added: "We would always advise licensees to exercise caution in seizing articles off customers, particularly in circumstances where this could lead to a counter allegation against the licensee of assault or trespass to the person or property."