Mounted police patrols to tackle drunken disorder in Newcastle

Licensees in Newcastle have welcomed plans for mounted police patrols to help reduce the level of drunken disorder.

The city is bidding for the title of European Capital of Culture in 2008 and senior officers are under pressure to clamp down on the Quayside's reputation for rowdiness.

Northumbria Police used horses to control crowds of drinkers on New Year's Eve. Now they plan to use the patrols every Friday and Saturday night. Newcastle attracts more than 80,000 revellers every weekend.

Chief Inspector Dave Jackson said although police had managed to cut serious crime in the city centre, they did suffer from a problem of drunken disorder, which angers many residents.

"As well as disorder from drunkenness and minor assaults around closing time, the kinds of crime we encounter are thefts of women's purses, bags and mobile phones.

"Using horses will not only help our officers to control crowds, it is also good public relations. The horses are very popular."

Bob Senior, managing director of Ultimate Leisure, which has a string of nightclubs, bars and restaurants in the area, said: "I welcome the police having a higher profile.

"It's all part of making people feel comfortable coming to the city. Although it is a great city with a party atmosphere, it's also got to be seen to be safe."

Oliver Vaulkhard, the owner and licensee of the Quilted Camel pub, said: "We fully support the police. It's important for everyone to be able to enjoy themselves in a safe environment on the Quayside."