Community alcohol scheme established

Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury’s will give other local retailers training to prevent under-age alcohol sales as part of a new Community Alcohol Partnership scheme in Great Yarmouth.

The scheme uses a navy cadet system that offers training in skills needed in local industries.

Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) chair Baroness Newlove said: “I have been delighted to see the tremendous work CAP schemes have done to help reduce the harm and antisocial behaviour associated with under-age drinking across the country.

“I am particularly pleased that in Great Yarmouth we are able to combine our efforts with an enormously worthwhile alternative offering young people the skills they need to get a good job and prosper in life. I feel strongly our young people need adult guidance as they mature, and something to aspire to, which this scheme does.”

The CAP has given £10,000 to the cadet scheme, which has also received big donations from the local authority, Norfolk County Council Trading Standards and the local Community Safety Partnership – adding up to £25,000.

As part of its education drive, the CAP will see Crimestoppers visit young people in schools and youth clubs to teach them about the dangers of alcohol consumption.

Adults will be targeted through leaflets and other information about the laws on proxy purchasing – highlighting the fact that people can be prosecuted for buying alcohol for children.

Alcohol-related litter and vandalism will also be targeted in various areas around Great Yarmouth.