Blackpool landlords to display stag and hen party rules

Blackpool's latest weapon against economic and social degeneration is a code of conduct to drive out unruly behaviour of stag and hen parties.

The code of conduct (see separate panel) was devised by the town's council and will be displayed in bars and hotels while good behaviour images will be projected onto buildings.

Peter Callow, leader of Blackpool Council, said: "I am absolutely determined to clean up this town and confirm its fun and family image."

He added: "From the outset let me say loud and clear that stag and hen parties are very welcome in Blackpool providing they respect others and keep their enjoyment clean and inoffensive."

A similar scheme in Venice, to help keep St Mark's Square clean and tidy, had shown good results, he said.

"This code sets a tone and standard for the town."

Keep it clean

Respect the beach, the streets and other people's property: keep it clean for everyone

We all like to have fun but think of others and keep your fun, good clean fun

Keep control

We want a town that feels free, safe and easy going, don't spoil it by drinking too much or using threatening behaviour

Keep smiling

Blackpool is a happy, place – share it with others!

Keep coming back

We love our visitors – see you next time!

"It's all about reassuring people that they can come to Blackpool and thoroughly enjoy themselves without the threat of unacceptable behaviour."

An additional measure has been added to the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 which gives police the ability to issue an individual aged 16 or over with a "direction to leave a locality".

The direction prohibits their return to that locality for a period not exceeding 48 hours to prevent or reduce the likelihood of such alcohol-related crime or disorder.

Dave Daley, President of the National Association of Licensed House Managers and a Blackpool Licensee, welcomed the code.

"When groups come into pubs they have to abide by our rules, but it's when they're outside it's a real problem," he said.

"We don't want to spoil the fun or chase people away, but when you're walking the streets with children, some of these groups are getting a bit too close to the bone."

Blackpool currently has a programme of development underway ranging from an urban park at the People's Playground to the retail-led Talbot Gateway.