MP Tipping joins Friday night crime beat

Mr Tipping spent most of last Friday night in Hucknall town-centre with officers and spoke to both drinkers and licensees.

He also asked police officers for their views on the extension of opening hours at pubs and clubs, which is likely to come into force later this year.

He hopes to report his findings back to the Home Secretary, Charles Clarke.

Mr Tipping was full of praise for the good work that seems to have been done by police to lower the amount of alcohol-related trouble in Hucknall at weekends.

"The town has a history of being a lively night out but I think the police have done remarkably well over the past few weeks," said Mr Tipping.

"More police officers in the town at night and high visibility have had an effect.

"Alcohol-related crime and violence have been significantly reduced and I have to give congratulations to what the police have achieved. But we have to keep it going.

"We have to keep up the standard and, at the same time, it's important we cut down on binge drinking and the idea of drinking a few at home before going out. We also need to look at happy hours.

"I also visited a few off-licences and there were children hanging around outside.

"But all the off-licensees were clear that they were not serving people who are under age. The message has got across and that has brought about the significant change."

Mr Tipping revealed his support for the new licensing laws.

"There is a possibility of 24-hour licensing in Hucknall. But pubs wouldn't be open all day. What the new laws really mean are flexibility.

"Licensees will ask for an extension and we are going to have a staggered finishing time, which is something to be commended. But it does mean police will be on the streets longer."

Police reported that, although the town centre was busy, last Friday night passed without bother.

Of Mr Tipping's evening on the beat, Insp Konsek said: "It was successful but we weren't as busy as normal."