DRUNKEN troublemakers and drug dealers will have even fewer places to go now that The Red Lion in Melksham has joined Wiltshire's most successful Pubwatch group.

Located in the town centre, The Red Lion has bolstered the Melksham Pubwatch campaign to ban intoxicated nuisance makers from disrupting the community.

New landlady Margaret Bright wanted to join the association as soon as she was settled in her new home.

She said: "Partnerships are good for the whole community and make people feel safer and more comfortable when they come out to socialise."

"It is particularly important for customers of all ages to know they are welcome we're here to entertain older couples as well as the younger generation."

The Pubwatch association aims to reduce fighting, verbal and physical abuse, criminal damage and theft, and the possession or dealing of drugs.

Pubwatch chairman Cameron Scott stressed that it is only through the support of all new licensees that Melksham will maintain its reputation as a fun night out.

He commented: "With each new member we close the door still further on undesirable customers, and together help make the town a much safer place."