Police in South Lakeland and Furness are confident that that pubs and clubs can be trusted with relaxed opening times despite a recent surge in alcohol-fuelled crime in the area.

Chief Superintendent Garry Horlacher and licensing officer PC John Brooks say they believe licensees will act responsibly to ensure the legislation achieves one of its major goals to reduce alcohol-related crime, in particular violence.

Mr Horlacher said the legislation would come into place at a time when there had been a "significant" rise in crimes related to binge drinking in South Lakeland and Furness a trend reflected across the country.

"We will positively act against that culture and will look for all like-minded people to support that and I'm looking to licensees to act responsibly and help progress this legislation sensibly," he said.

Mr Horlacher added that he did not envisage any extra strain on policing because of the law, with the police heavily involved in the application process allowing them to back or challenge applications.

Under the new act police powers will be bolstered, allowing officers, among other additional powers, to close down premises within a specified area for up to 24 hours where disorder has occurred or is anticipated.

PC Brooks will play a key role in making police representations and is acutely aware of the challenges facing the role of the police.

"It's not a them and us' culture between us, SLDC and the licensees - venues are already pretty well run in this district because of the enforcement and partnership work we have done," he said.

"We have a fantastic relationship with pub and club owners because we know that badly managed licensed premises are a magnet for crime and disorder.

"We already work with them to ensure the management gets into shape and ensure adequate measures are in place."