Police have introduced night patrols in Epsom town centre, to clamp down on alcohol-fuelled hooliganism.

Shops in the High Street have had their windows smashed and a cab company has been forced to employ a bouncer to protect staff and waiting customers from violent yobs.

The new weekend patrols aim to combat the problem.

Borough Inspector Andrew Adams said: "While Epsom is a relatively safe place to spend the evening, it is being spoilt by a small minority of youngsters who cause a nuisance, purchase and consume alcohol, and intimidate members of the public and shop staff."

News of the patrols has reassured Barry Smith, owner of Viceroy Car Hire, who, as reported by the Comet, had to employ a bouncer in his West Street office last June.

He said: "I was constantly calling the police to break up fights and I was not the only shopkeeper in West Street to suffer. We have all had smashed windows."

Mark Mewse, manager of the Albion pub, said: "It is a good idea. Any physical presence is good and will hopefully stop some of the loons who cause problems in the town centre.

"We have a good reputation here but at two and three o'clock in the morning, when the clubs close, there can be trouble."

But the move has drawn a more sceptical response from other quarters.

Shaun Smyth, owner of the Print Centre, in West Street, which has had its shop window smashed, said: "This should not be a new thing. Night patrols should be something they do as a matter of course."

However, Mr Smith, who has joined the town ward's crime and disorder group, is positive about the partnership-based appro

January 31, 2003 11:32