Drinking outside in Thame town centre could be banned from April 1.

South Oxfordshire District Council's licensing comm- ittee is expected to impose the ban on February 12.

The move has the backing of the town council, police and pub landlords and there have been no objections from the public. The council agreed a year ago to make the order, which will be introduced in Cornmarket, Buttermarket, High Street, Upper High Street and North Street.

Anyone caught with alcohol will have it confiscated and failure to co-operate with police will lead to prosecution. Seating areas outside pubs will be exempt.

Pat Dawe, cabinet member for community safety, said: "It was the top priority of members of the public and we are acting on it.

"It's a good example of the council listening to what the people want."