A HARD-hitting campaign which will include warning jingles being played in town centre pubs has been launched in a bid to reduce drink-related violence.

Crystal Clear, the name for the street drinking ban introduced in Blackburn town centre, will also include posters, media advertising and street signs.

They will all warn people they face police action if they are caught boozing in the streets in Blackburn.

The scheme started at the beginning of March with a softly-softly approach to gauge the extent of the problem.

But council bosses, hospital staff, police and publicans came together today officially to launch the campaign, which was prompted by the latest Crime and Disorder survey in the borough.

It revealed that town centre crime was rising all the time, partly because of an increased number of people coming to the town at night to visit the ever-growing number of late-night venues.

At the centre of the campaign is the new ban on drinking on all streets within the orbital route, which took effect last month.

By banning drinking on the streets, it is hoped that the number of bottle and glass-related assaults will be reduced.

Under the ban, people caught drinking alcohol in the streets will have their drinks confiscated by the police. If they refuse to co-operate they could face arrest.

Police have been monitoring the problems of town centre drinking ahead of today's launch at King George's Hall.

But from today, a stringent clampdown will be enforced in a bid to curb violence and anti-social behaviour caused by excess alcohol.

Under the new ban, police can approach anyone seen drinking and ask them to stop. If they refuse they can be charged and face a fine of up to £500.

As part of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, councils have the power to impose no-drinking zones in areas where it is expected to lead to a reduction in criminal acts.

Throughout Blackburn, bar staff will wear distinctive tee-shirts featuring the words 'Out on the Town Getting Smashed.'

Special bins have also been placed throughout the town centre's alcohol free zone for police to dispose of bottles confiscated.

Chief Inspector Neil Smith of Blackburn police said: "This is aimed at improving behaviour in the town centre and cutting down on violence.

"It is unacceptable for people to be walking the streets of Blackburn with bottles or glasses and we will use this legislation to ensure the town is a safer place for people to be."

Coun Maureen Bateson, executive member for citizens and consumer rights, said: "The problems we are experiencing are no worse than any town with a popular evening culture and I don't want people to think we have a situation that is any different to anywhere else.

"Blackburn is a marvellous place for a good night out and we want to make sure that it stays that way."

Simon Makinson, manager of Blackburn's Moist Caf Bar, said: "Young people drink straight from the bottle.

"If they haven't finished their drink before leaving a bar they tend to take it with them."

Derek Haworth, chairman of Blackburn Licensed Victuallers, said: "It has got to be a good thing. It seems to work in other towns.

"People need to know they can go for a drink in town safely, and that is good for trade."