Underage clampdown seems to be paying off

Underage sting operations have resulted in managed operators tightening procedures and have had a positive impact on combating underage drinking, according to Laurel chief executive Julian Sargeson.

Figures released on refused entries to two Croydon venues prove great strides are being made. Regent Inns-owned Walkabout turned away or refused service to 1,524 people in December, while Laurel's Yates's turned down 2,500.

"One of the four objectives of the Licensing Act is the protection of children and we must be seen to uphold that," said Sargeson, whose company has 400 high street sites. "The use of fake IDs is as low as it has ever been because most places are only accepting a passport or driving licence. Youngsters are more savvy and if they think they may get asked for ID they are carrying it around with them. That can only be a positive."

Despite the greater awareness and professionalism of doorstaff, barstaff and managers, venues are still being caught out. Mitchells & Butlers spokesman Simon Ward said the company took any failures very seriously. "The area managers go and make sure they are satisfied with the training in place. No-one should pour a pint without the correct training."

Sargeson is considering em-ploying an outside company to perform stings on his estate so that he can get a better idea of where they stand. "Some local authorities have only informed us of a failure four weeks after it has taken place. That makes it very hard to investigate and is not acceptable."

Northumbria chief constable Mike Craik, whose force ran the Don't Spoil the Party campaign over Christmas, believes sting operations are vital in bringing about a change in culture. "If you don't stop kids binge drinking when they are 15 or 16, what are they going to be like when they are 24? Morally, we are on the high ground," he said. "In Northumbria, the hit rate is declining."

However, another managed operator believes the sting operations have become over the top. "We have no problem with the whole tightening up but there is the temptation to be over zealous. Eventually people will get pissed off.

"In some places you have to look 25 not to be asked for ID and that is causing some angst among those not used to carrying ID around."