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Bar under fire over free vodka
Police have voiced concern over a promotion at a local bar which will offer women unlimited free vodka.
Minnesota Jax, in Seaside, will give ladies as much 'vodka and a splash' as they want every Friday in June, from 7pm to 11pm.
Owner Darren Bush said the bar's staff would 'promote safe drinking and not binge drinking', and women will only be given free vodka if they are wearing outfits matched to the themed nights: Western, Abba, Caribbean and casino.
Police in Eastbourne have been making strenuous efforts to outlaw drunken behaviour in the town centre, and have opposed bids for new licensed premises.
Inspector Nick Wainwright, of Sussex Police, said, "Sussex Police do not support discounted or free drinks promotions under any circumstances.
"There is an obligation to all Designated Premises Supervisors under The Licensing Act 2003 to ensure their premises are managed in a responsible manner in order to achieve the licensing objectives.
"At this stage I have yet to receive confirmation of the specific details of this intended drinks promotion, however, I will be visiting the management of the premises in the near future with a view to clarifying details and clearly pointing out Sussex Police's stance on irresponsible behaviour.
"We have worked closely with the licensing team of Eastbourne Borough Council to ensure that similar drinks promotions at other venues in the town have not taken place and will continue to do so in the future.
"Any offers which are likely to lead to drunkenness are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
"We will continue to deal in a positive manner with offences of drunken or disorderly behaviour to ensure Eastbourne remains a safe place to visit."
A spokesperson for Eastbourne Borough Council, which is a member of Eastbourne Crime Reduction Partnership, said, "Whilst we cannot comment on specific cases, we would remind all designated premises supervisors of their responsibilities under the Licensing Act 2003, and advise against this proposal.
"Operators are expected to take appropriate steps to manage their premises, including mechanisms to encourage safer socialising and responsible drinking practices. Any instances of drunkenness or alcohol related disorder will be dealt with robustly, and action taken against all parties concerned, including the designated premises supervisor."
MP Nigel Waterson said, "I think it is appalling. We have already seen the problems caused in the town fuelled by cheap drink, so free drink on this scale will make matters even worse.
"If it can be stopped it should be."
Mr Bush, who is also the owner of Risky's, a nude lap dancing club linked to the American bar, insists the 'staff will not allow anyone to get absolutely drunk' from the free 25 ml shots of vodka, and the idea is for punters 'to have fun'.
Councillor Margaret Bannister, Devonshire Ward councillor, said, "Eastbourne has a vibrant evening economy and is a fantastic place to go out.
"However, we would actively discourage irresponsible practices which could encourage binge drinking and drunkenness.
"The impact this has on other people and especially town centre residents must be foremost in any licensing issues.
"Anti-social behaviour in the town centre is an ongoing problem that we would seek to address."
In June 2007 the council introduced a cumulative impact policy effectively stopping any new bars, pubs and clubs opening in Eastbourne fearing any more would create additional anti-social behaviour.
Cllr Bannister added, "The council, together with partners, has already introduced a range of measures to make the town as safe a place as possible to socialise, including the introduction of a cumulative impact policy.
"As councillors in Devonshire we remain committed to raising the standards of licensed premises in the borough and support the steps the council is taking to discourage what is seen as irresponsible marketing of alcohol."
Mr Bush defended the bar's new promotion and said, "It's a new idea. People can't just come in and get drunk. There will be themed nights and you have to be dressed up to qualify."
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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