Pub landlords and police have joined forces to tackle abusive customers.

Licensees in Newhaven have signed up to a scheme where they meet police once a month to discuss aggressive behaviour on their premises.

The group will vote on whether offenders should be put on a list banning them from 11 pubs and clubs in the town.

It is hoped the PubWatch scheme, modelled on a similar initiative in neighbouring Seaford, will act as a deterrent to troublemakers.

However, some Newhaven residents fear the success of Seaford PubWatch has actually lead to more disorder in their town.

They believe yobs banned from pubs in Seaford now travel to Newhaven for a night out.

Dave Stockley, chairman of Newhaven PubWatch and landlord of the Bridge Inn, said: "Even though it's only just up and running, I think it has already made a difference because we put four people on the banned list straight away and now they can't get served anywhere.

"Most people who cause trouble don't come from Newhaven. They have moved on from another town. Once they know we won't put up with their behaviour, hopefully, they will leave."

Police said PubWatch played a vital role in supporting their bid to keep law and order.

Ron Preddy, sector inspector for Seahaven, which covers Telscombe, Peacehaven, Newhaven, Seaford, Alfriston and East Dean, said: "I applaud the PubWatch scheme.

"It's an important part of our community safety plan that allows licensees and businesses to work together and take action against people they are unhappy about serving."