NUISANCE boozers on Fleetwood seafront have been sent packing by the town's
on-street drinks ban.
A scruffy group regularly annoyed locals by sitting in the Lower Lighthouse opposite the North Euston Hotel.
But since drinking on the street was outlawed, the group – nicknamed the Lighthouse Family – have moved out and visitors to the town have moved in to enjoy the view.
In the past, residents have complained that the drinkers were an unpleasant sight for those visiting the town.
The drinkers had been a source of frustration for the North Euston Hotel where manager Max Pierce has watched them since he took up his post four years ago.
He said: "We are very pleased to see the back of them.
"Guests were looking out of their rooms at them and when they were having breakfast.
"They were drinking, effing and blinding.
"We called the police on several occasions but they were limited over what they could do.
"We went over a couple of times and asked them to tidy themselves up but they were going nowhere."
They left litter and sometimes, he said, they were seen urinating by the benches around the lighthouse.
Now, however, the lighthouse seats were being used by regular visitors.
Also happy at the demise of the Lighthouse Family is Pat Driver, chairman of the Bold Street Residents' Association.
She said: "You get visitors to town with families sitting in there now.
"One or two people have remarking how nice it is to see people in there, using it for what was intended.
"Even though there is no notice there, everyone is aware of the ban.
"It has definitely made a difference in the area in general."
Insp Dave Vickers of Fleetwood police said: "The intention of the legislation is to have an impact on problem areas and individuals.
"It has had a positive impact and the whole purpose was to reduce anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related crime for the benefit of the community and that has been its success.
"It has given a clear message as to where people can and can't drink."
The drinks ban was introduced just before the Fleetwood Transport Festival last month and organisers said they were delighted with the way it had helped to keep drinkers indoors on the town's busiest day.