SKIPTON High Street and the majority of the town centre becomes a booze-free zone from today (Friday).

The introduction of the ban, which prohibits the drinking of alcohol on the streets, has been timed for the start of the festive break.

Today is "Builders' Friday" - the day when workmen traditionally go out to celebrate the start of the Christmas - which has created problems for the police in the past.

It is hoped the ban will complement the extra police officers who will be out on the streets ready to deal with disorder.

Acting Chief Inspector Tad Nowakowski told the Herald: "We have altered shifts so that we can have the maximum number of officers working to respond to any reports of disorderly behaviour."

The police will also be working closely with local licensees.

The new ban covers the High Street, Swadford Street and part of Cavendish Street, Keighley Road, the bus station, the churchyard, the Mill Bridge area, a patch near the canal off Water Street and the Victoria Street and Albert Terrace area which links the High Street with Coach Street.

Signs will be up to let people know that they cannot drink in the area and police have the power to ask them to stop drinking. If they refuse, they can be arrested.