Street drinkers have been clamped down on by shop owners and police.

Officers from Wandle Valley Safer Neighbourhoods Team worked with Sutton’s Anti-Social Behaviour Unit to set up ‘Responsible Retail Agreements’ (RRAs) with nine licensed premises around Middleton Circle and London Road, Hackbridge.

These formal RRAs, have meant that lagers or ciders over six per cent in volume strength have been removed from the shelves and entry has been refused to six known street drinkers.

Police Community Support Officer Sarah Lowe, who has taken the lead with this initiative, said the street drinkers used to beg, throw litter and urinate when they gathered in groups to drink.

“Now by working with licensed premises, the street drinkers have left the area - much to the delight of local residents and shopkeepers who are really pleased with what we have achieved.”

Jayesh Patel, owner of Best One, said street drinkers used to hang around outside his shop using abusive language towards each other - putting off customers from coming into the shop.

Mr Patel explained that he could see customers drive up in their cars only to drive off without getting out.

“But since we have refused to serve these drinkers they have stopped coming into the shop and gathering nearby,” he said. “It’s made a huge difference to the area.”