Troublemakers can expect 13-month pub ban

The Pubwatch bans that are handed out can run up to 13 months, potentially putting any pub-related social life on halt for Christmas troublemakers. 

The move has been introduced to help halt any trouble in the town during one of the busiest times of the year for licensees.

It is also intended to help pub and club staff provide a safe and vibrant night out for everyone as people celebrate the season.

One of the town’s neighbourhood policing team Sergeant David Macdonald said: “We fully support this robust action. It means those causing trouble face a ban that impacts on their social life both this Christmas – and next.

“The Whitehaven Pubwatch scheme is dedicated and keen to ensure people see the town as a safe and inviting place. If you believe that the ban has no relevance, then think again.”

Lifetime ban​

Pubwatch bans can be handed out following offences such as assault, disorder and drugs crime.

They usually run for between one month and one year, although bans for the most serious offences run for two years.

There is even a lifetime ban if the circumstances deem it to be proportionate. 

Macdonald continued: “This is a fantastic time of year and a ban such as this prevents you from enjoying the nights out on offer here.

“We will continue to work with licensed premises staff to ensure these premises remain a safe and inviting place for all law-abiding members of the community and are also a safe workplace for those employed in the licensed trade.”  

Time for celebration​

Whitehaven Pubwatch chairman Jason Fisher said: “A move such as this deals appropriately with individuals who commit trouble in pubs.

“What we’re doing is aiming to make sure people can come out to enjoy a safe and enjoyable night.”

Police and crime commissioner Peter McCall said: “Christmas is meant to be a time of celebration with friends and family but unfortunately there are always a small number of people who just take it too far.

“Too often this leads to trouble which creates stress and even injury for pubgoers, pub owners, pub staff and even the police.”

Spoiling the fun​

McCall continued: "So I am very pleased to see Pubwatch partners imposing robust, but appropriate, bans meaning that anyone causing trouble will be put on a ban for the next 13 months.

“This will hopefully mean that any troublemakers will be off the streets and pubs so that everyone else can get back to enjoying themselves responsibly and safely.

“These measures are not about spoiling anyone’s fun but people should be clear: if you do cause trouble you will face robust consequences.

"Know your limits, have a good time, get home safe and don’t ruin your Christmas by having to sit it out.”