LANCASTER Tory hopeful Steve Barclay has joined a campaign to call time on opening hour restriction.

Mr Barclay says he is keen to see changes in licensing laws, which are currently being closely examined by the Government, and end the problem of 'binge' drinking.

He said: "Other cities, especially in Europe, show people on the whole have a limited amount of money to spend, and with longer hours will drink the same amount but over a longer period."

The bid to change the law is backed by drinkers' pressure group CAMRA.