Home Office Minister James Brokenshire made a visit to a project aimed at tackling underage sales, drink-fuelled crime and antisocial behaviour at night.

The crime prevention minister arrived in Newquay yesterday where he will be meeting with local representatives from the Newquay Safe Partnership – which involves police, business owners, residents and Cornwall Council staff and which was set up after residents protested about disorder in the town.

Mr Brokenshire last night walked around pubs and bars in the town to see first-hand the problems and successes the team have had in sorting out troublemakers.

The visit coincides with a six-week public consultation on a range of options to overhaul the Licensing Act, giving greater powers to local communities to curb drinking hours and taking tougher action on problem premises.

Mr Brokenshire said: "We are concerned about the number of alcohol-related incidents and the drink-fuelled crime and disorder that blights many of our towns and cities.

"The majority of pubs and bars are well-run businesses but the Government believes the system needs to be rebalanced in favour of the local communities they serve, with tougher action to crack down on the small number of premises who cause problems.

"I am really encouraged to see how Newquay Safe Partnership is leading the way and working with the community to address the issues that really matter to local people."

Lance Kennedy, Cornwall Council Cabinet member and Newquay Safe Partnership member, said: "Our Partnership brings together over 20 organisations that have been working hard to help Newquay evolve as a safe and enjoyable place to live and visit."