Establishments offering all-inclusive drinks promotions in Devon and Cornwall face stiff penalties from the local police force.

In response to recent media attention on alcohol-related crime and disorder, Devon and Cornwall Police has warned licensing authorities in the area against selling cheap alcohol, threatening close police observation and the possibility of stiff penalties.

Assistant chief constable Paul Netherton said: "There has been a large amount of local and national media coverage concerning licensing, underage and excessive drinking during the last few weeks and I would reiterate we will take the strongest action possible against premises where promotions encourage people to drink as much as they like for a nominal fee.

"Selling as much alcohol as you can drink for £10 is just wrong - not only from a social responsibility perspective, but also for someone's health and well being.

"I accept the use of such promotions is not unlawful in itself, but establishments running them are failing to meet the fundamental objectives of the Licensing Act.

"Premises that continue to operate under these promotions will be subject to enhanced policing, including increased licensing visits and checks by both uniformed and plain clothes officers."

Under the Licensing Act 2003, premises considered to be contributing to crime and disorder can have their licence reviewed or business closed down.

The announcement follows the recent decision by Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council to introduce a number of new conditions for pubs and bars in the Lancashire town relating to the sale of alcohol.