A law to ban people from drinking on the streets of Eastbourne will come into force next month.

The regulations will enable police in the town to confiscate alcohol they believe is being drunk or is about to be drunk in certain public places such as the beach.

Anyone not complying with police could face arrest and a fine of up to £500.

Chairman of the Town Centre Action Group, Councillor Sheila Charlton, said: "Eastbourne is now in a position to take action to create a designated area within which those who behave in an anti-social manner because of drink related behaviour can be challenged.

"We are very pleased that the Government has processed this bylaw."

The law mirrors the council's previous proposals to stop on-street drinking and signs could soon go up across the town warning people of the new law.