BINGE drinking is causing big problems in Huddersfield.

Magistrates say it is a growing problem for the police and the courts.

John Rotchell, chairman of the Huddersfield Licensing Committee, voiced his concerns over ever- cheaper drink deals when he spoke at the magistrates' court's annual Brewster Sessions.

He said a list of special offers designed to woo revellers was leading to drunken behaviour around the town - and hidden health problems.

As part of his yearly speech, he also discussed the drive to cut down on drug use in Huddersfield's pubs and clubs.

Sgt Alan Rhees-Cooper, of the Huddersfield Target Team, said that while police were working to stop the binge-drinking culture, it was up to the clubs and pubs to decide what prices to impose in a competitive market.

"We don't approve of the aggressive promotions, because we do believe it encourages excessive drinking. But we can't stop those directly," he said.

He added: "You can't start restricting free trade."

But Sgt Rhees-Cooper said regular meetings were held with big club and pub chains.

It was up to staff, he said, not to serve alcohol to people who were clearly already too drunk.

He also said that more pro- active door policies were seeing people refused entry if they were the worse for drink.

Sgt Rhees-Cooper said about half the premises in the town centre were linked to a radio system.

Staff can now warn each another about trouble-makers.

Mr Rotchell also said the results of the Dob-In-A-Dealer scheme would show the impact on drug- taking and drug-dealing in the town centre.

Sgt Rhees-Cooper said police took a hard line against pubs and clubs which did not stamp out blatant drug dealing and taking.

"Most licensed premises are on top of this problem," he added.