CREWE and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson is calling for Government to take tough action against the uncontrolled spread of binge-drinking.

Latest Home Office crime figures have revealed that across Crewe and Nantwich there were 1,693 violent attacks against individuals last year.

Based on Government surveys of crime victims, this suggests that 796 of these attacks could have been alcohol-related.

There is growing concern about the overlapping problems of late night drinking, fast food outlets selling alcohol at night; under-age drinking; the easy availability of high-strength alcohol; and retailers like supermarkets selling alcohol below cost-price.

The Police Federation has warned that the need to police town centres around the clock is making it harder to answer emergency calls elsewhere.

Mr Timpson said: “Local councils like Cheshire East need greater powers to tackle binge-drinking and related violence.

"The reckless sale of high-strength, bargain-basement alcohol is damaging health and fuelling violence.

"I enjoy going to the pub as much as the next person, and think that we need laws that will target specific forms of alcohol associated with binge drinking, whilst helping to protect our community's pubs.

“We should all be able to have a night out without fear of violence.”