Alcohol bans have proved a success where beggars and street drinkers have made residents lives a misery.

Brighton and Hove City Council's pilot scheme in Kemp Town has widely been welcomed by many in the area.

However, an alcohol ban on the beach could prove problematic for those trying to enforce such a law.

Police officers would have to count on the co-operation of the general public for such a ruling to be effective and officers could find it difficult to pace across the pebbles in search of offenders.

Bars which make a living from selling alcohol on the seafront may not be so welcoming of the new rules.

Nor would the many responsible people in Brighton and Hove who enjoy the odd pint on the pebbles, albeit in a plastic glass.

The city council should be applauded for taking action to tackle anti-social behaviour but a careful balance must be sought to ensure improving our quality of life does not take the fun out of living in the place to be.