Russell raises a glass to Pubwatch success

Sep 26 2008 by Allison Dickinson, Chester Chronicle

Russell raises a glass to Pubwatch success

CHESTER MP Christine Russell has congratulated publicans for their hard work in dealing with binge drinking – but said more has to be done to tackle the effects of booze culture in the city.

She made the comments while addressing members of Chester’s Pubwatch as they held their annual meeting at Stanley Palace in Lower Watergate Street on Tuesday.

Although admitting there is little Chester can do in isolation, Mrs Russell felt developments in licensing laws have helped because they have created stronger control over licensed premises.

“There is a really good relationship between the police, licensing and the local authority which helps to create a much safer evening environment in the city centre and a well-managed, well-run Pubwatch like the one we have in Chester can make a real difference to having a safe, secure night out,” she said.

“I do get angry when people say that Chester is going to the dogs – the time has come to stand up and be counted.”

Mrs Russell chaired a debate on the evening economy five years ago and feels very strongly about Britain’s drinking problem, adding that the media often “points the finger at the wrong people”. She explained: “Some parents have to take a far greater responsibility for what their youngsters are doing when they are away from home – they know their kids are drinking but they turn a blind eye.

“Greedy supermarkets like Tesco, who pile the booze sky high, also have a lot to answer for. Chester is no different to everywhere else for that and we have to look at changing their policy of selling cheap booze.

“The NHS has to spend billions treating alcohol abuse and although I think the jury is out on raising the legal drinking age from 18 to 21, it is something worth consideration.”