IT will be some time before it is possible to accurately measure the full effects of the new relaxed licensing laws.

Police quite rightly plan to have a prison van parked in the town centre to lock up problem drunks if the cells become full as the new opening hours come into force tonight.

CCTV cameras will also be used alongside fixed penalty notices and extra patrols in what will amount to one of the biggest ever police operations on the streets of Bolton.

One bar has applied to stay open round the clock Friday to Monday, while other pubs and clubs have applied for new extended licences.

However, despite all of this and the imagined scenarios of people lying in gutters and causing problems throughout the night, the reality is that nothing much is likely to change.

Many people are unlikely to drink through the night because they have jobs to go to, while those that don't or have families to feed probably can't afford to.

For most people, however, the changes in the law represent an opportunity to enjoy an occasional late night drink when the opportunity presents itself.

Undoubtedly, extended hours mean extra costs in policing and for bars, most of which will not generate enough custom for it to be worth their while staying open all night.

The police themselves do not anticipate any changes in the way people socialise, but say they will deal firmly with anyone who causes problems.

Time will tell, but let us hope people react sensibly to a move that puts our licensing laws in line with the majority of Europe.