CHELMSFORD Star Co-operative was presented with Reducing the Strength window stickers after they pledged to withdraw all super strength, low cost alcohol from shelves in their 16 stores across the city.

The term 'super strength' includes all lagers, beers and ciders sold cheaply with an alcohol volume of 6.5 per cent or more. The emphasis is on the high alcohol content and low cost - the campaign does not include premium products.

The Reducing the Strength campaign has been launched in Chelmsford to reduce the level of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour and crime and to encourage more dependent drinkers into treatment services.

To date, 26 stores across Chelmsford have pledged to remove super strength, low cost alcohol from their stores and sign up to the scheme.

City Councillor Ian Grundy, cabinet member for safer communities, said: "This campaign is an important part of the partnership's programme of interventions to tackle alcohol-related problems.

“I’m very happy that some retailers are already on board - street drinkers are a vulnerable part of our community, and it's great to see companies working ethically with the Council and police on a programme which will help them."

For more information, contact Chelmsford City Council's Community Safety Team on 01245 606341 or communitysafety@chelmsford.gov.uk