DUDLEY pub managers are teaming up with cops to crack down on booze-fuelled crime in the town centre.

Dudley Police’s licensing officer has launched a Pub Watch scheme which brings together licensees from bars and their security staff to share information about troublemakers.

The scheme provides a forum for licensees to discuss a range of issues and exchange intelligence to keep town centre streets safe.

The Pub Watch scheme also features a radio link to provide town centre venue security staff with access to a radio network which puts them in touch other premises and the borough's CCTV control room and town centre police teams.

Licensing officer for Dudley police, Pc Natalie Lees, said: "Whilst Dudley does not suffer from excessive numbers of alcohol related incidents we are determined to ensure that the numbers of crimes remain low, so officers are working closely with local licensees to robustly target any individuals causing trouble.

"The message from the police and Pub Watch is have a great, safe night in Dudley, and police and licensees will work together to seek and arrest those few people who cause trouble in the town centre.

"We will not tolerate instances of alcohol related disorder and by working closely with the licensees we will ensure that those involved in such incidents will not be welcomed at licensed premises within the town."

Thirteen licensees from premises within the town are members of Dudley Pub Watch, including The Shrewsbury Arms, Full Moon, Cafe Grande, The Court House, Saracen’s Head, Little Barrel, The Griffin, The Castle, The Malt Shovel, The Foundry, The Fellows, The Grange and The Old Priory.