BURY police tonight launch their biggest ever operation to combat alcohol-fuelled crime.

Between now and Christmas, extra patrols will monitor weekend revellers while flushing out under-age drinkers from town centre pubs and clubs as part of Operation Tray.

And police chiefs are promising a hard-line approach by officers who have been authorised to run a "low tolerance" campaign against offenders.

Inspector Martin Stanhope, head of Bury's Operational Policing Unit, said: "One of this division's primary objectives is to tackle and eradicate alcohol-related crimes including assaults and criminal damage, as well as tackling under-age drinking."

The operation follows a recent crackdown against children visiting Bury's Sol and Viva nightclub.

In just one night, about 300 youths were refused entry because they could not prove they were aged 18 or over. An 11-year-old girl was among those turned away.

As part of the crackdown, people throwing litter or smashing bottles or glasses will be dealt with by officers.

Insp Stanhope said: "We want to make Bury town centre a safe and welcoming place, free from a minority who are determined to cause harm and destruction."

Police are seeking the support of all the town centre licensees.

They will be expected to refuse to serve anyone who is already drunk and to deny access to under-age drinkers.

Insp Stanhope said: "We expect great support from Bury's licensing trade. We are doing this to help them as well as the public.

"However, those who repeatedly break the licensing rules, or who run disorderly pubs, will be dealt with."