A HIGH profile crackdown on drunken yobs who plague Crewe and Nantwich town centres on weekend nights has been hailed a big success.

Police chiefs say their Yellow Card scheme brought 16 people to book over the weekend and was welcomed by people keen to enjoy a night out without the fear of trouble-makers.

More than 25 police officers, including a specially trained Police Support Unit, were in Nantwich on Friday night and Crewe on Saturday.

Officers brandishing football-style yellow cards warned rowdy revellers against public order offences, including abusive and threatening behaviour and urinating in the street.

They also had the option of showing red cards to serious offenders.

A total of 12 men and women were arrested in Crewe and detained at cells at Crewe Courts, allowing officers to go straight back on the street.

Four of the men were taken in after a serious assault on a 35-year-old man who suffered a suspected fractured eye socket.

Three of the four people arrested in Nantwich were juveniles.

Chief Inspector Robin Crorie, of Crewe and Nantwich Police Division, said Operation Yellow Card would continue throughout the summer at different venues across the county.

He said: 'Police officers involved in the campaign to reduce violent and rowdy behaviour in Crewe and Nantwich town centres were approached by people of all ages who said they thought it was a great idea.

'Personally, I spoke to young and old people who expressed their appreciation for the move.

'Some had been victims of disorderly behaviour or violent crime in the past.

'I was disappointed to note once again that alcohol played a significant part in the behaviour of many of those arrested.

'We will continue to work with the licensing trade and other agencies in strategic crime education initiatives to educate young people about alcohol abuse.'