The last thing any town or village needs in harsh economic times is any extra reasons to stop people from visiting shops or tourist attractions.

One sure way of damaging the reputation of any centre is to have beggars and boozed-up troublemakers on the streets.

Last week we reported on how five men have been banned from pubs in Haworth for anti-social behaviour. The action is part of a drive to keep the village safe ahead of the main tourist season.

This week it was confirmed that five people, including three woman, have been served with Anti-Social Behaviour Contracts following public concern about their behaviour near the Airedale Shopping Centre. They must not drink alcohol in public places, shout abuse or generally behave anti-socially. Police say they will not tolerate the sight of people drinking alcohol in public and being abusive.

What a cracking start to dealing with this issue.

Currently, there is a major high-level debate going on about how to control and manage the current situation in this country, where one in four people are said to drink too much alcohol.

Should there be a minimum price per unit and should shops be banned from selling vastly discounted alcohol are just two of the questions.

Here the cynic may also ask the question — “What use is serving a piece of paper on people like that?” They send out a clear message to those involved and others that the public will no longer accept such behaviour and our towns and villages will be cleaned up and made more safe.