Street drinkers causing a nuisance are being warned to lay off the booze in Hounslow or face a hefty fine.

With the summer months ahead, Hounslow police and Hounslow council are taking a tougher approach towards boozing in public with a clear message that alcohol could be confiscated if a person or group of people are considered to be troublesome.

The borough which is covered by a blanket controlled drinking zone (CDZ) to tackle anti-social behaviour including in town centres and parks was introduced following a majority of residents overwhelming support for action in a survey in 2013.

The CDZ allows officers to ask people to stop drinking and hand over their alcohol, and if a person refuses can lead to a fine up to £500, or in extreme cases an arrest.

Police have also warned of a spike in domestic violence during Euro 2016 , as alcohol and 'heightened emotions' could be a toxic mix.

Sergeant Neil Witcombe, from Hounslow police team, said: “Summer is a wonderful time for people to come together and spend time outdoors.

“Often this involves people having a drink. All we ask is that people stay safe and have fun. If you’re approached by police officers or PCSOs about your drinking it is because we feel this might not be the case."

'Not an outright ban on drinking'

He added: “We hope people understand that we are not doing it to ruin your day but need to ensure that everyone stays safe and enjoys themselves.”

Officers will patrol known public drinking hotspots to deter irresponsible street drinking.

Councillor Sue Sampson, Hounslow council’s cabinet member for community protection, said: “The CDZ isn’t an outright ban on drinking in public but it is effective in making sure that those who do drink, do so responsibility and don’t cause distress to others.

“More and more residents are telling us that they are concerned about the number of people drinking on the streets and in parks.

“This summer we’re taking a tougher approach to ensure that people don’t feel harassed or intimidated by unacceptable alcohol-induced behaviour.

“Our message is simple; if you do drink in public, do so responsibly or face the consequences.”

For more information on the CDZ or to get help for drug or alcohol misuse visit iHear Partnership or call 020 8538 1150.