BYE-LAWS to ban drinking in the streets of Clitheroe could be introduced to rid the town of its "Wild West" image.

Ribble Valley Council's policy and finance committee heard last night that hordes of young people were descending on the town at weekends making residents' lives a misery.

Residents have complained that hundreds are gathering at a taxi rank in King Lane and a bus stop in Lowergate, leaving a trail of broken glass and bottles behind them.

The committee decided to arrange a special meeting with police to consider if the town's closed circuit television could be used more effectively.

They also want legal officers to investigate the introduction of a bye-law banning drinking and the creation of a "night-time" taxi rank situated away from houses.

Ninety residents have signed a petition expressing concern about noise, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

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