A LEADING councillor has backed a tough campaign against binge drinking in Huddersfield.

Clr Peter Sykes, who chairs Kirklees Council's licensing committee, said it was vital to encourage "sensible" drinking.

The campaign is a joint effort by the council, the police and pubs and clubs to clamp down on alcohol and drug abuse.

A charter has been agreed to curb unruly behaviour and stop propblems in the town centre.

Clr Sykes said he hoped the scheme would be extended to all licensed premises in Kirklees, including restaurants.

He added: "The central aim is to encourage people to act responsibly. We recognise the competitive worlds of pubs and clubs and are not `killjoys'."

The main points in of the charter are:

* Registered door staff being employed when requested by the police or the council

* CCTV as requested or advised by the police or council

* A clampdown on `binge drinking' offers and promotions

* Attending and joining Pubwatch schemes

* Tightening pubs' and clubs' procedures for combating drug misuse

* Establishments will not serve drunks.