A week of action aimed at targeting alcohol-related crime and promoting responsible drinking begins across west Kent today.

Kent Police will be providing a stronger presence in areas in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour and promote the reduction of harm through the consumption of alcohol.

Officers in Tunbridge Wells will be checking that bars and shops are complying with the Challenge 25 scheme, where anyone who appears to be younger than 25 is asked for ID.

To assist licensed premises, door staff will also be advised about PASS, which is the UK's national guarantee scheme for proof-of-age cards.

Visible patrtols will also operate in town centres where there have been issues with antisocial behaviour and disorder as a result of excess drinking.

Special constables in Maidstone will be carrying out license checks on premises operating in the evening.

Deputy divisional commander for west Kent, superintendent Des Keers said: "We already work very hard to tackle the small minority of people who cause problems and commit crimes, largely as a result of excess drinking.

"We know what areas there are most likely to be problems and deploy visible policing there to deter disorder. Alcohol related crime will not be tolerated.

"It is also important that people remember that they are more vulnerable if they have been drinking alcohol. Know your limits - don't drink to excess and make sure you walk away from confrontation."

Tonbridge police officers will be swabbing venues to detect the presence of drugs.

Meanwhile, PCSOs in the Sevenoaks district will be mirroring the actions of fellow officers in west Kent, by focusing on the sale of alcohol to minors from shops.

Supt Keersadded: "Whilst the vast majority of licensees and shop owners have measures in place to prevent underage sales, officers will be reinforcing advice and guidance to premises - to adopt best practices which also encourage responsible drinking."

This action has been organised to support the national ACPO In Focus campaign on alcohol awareness which is a nationally co-ordinated campaign.

Kent Police is working in conjunction with partner agencies, including Trading Standards and local licensing teams.