There have been almost 600 fewer incidents of street violence in Sussex since police launched a blitz on drunken louts.

It equates to a 10.5 per cent drop at a time when Sussex Police is joining a nationwide crackdown on alcohol-related antisocial behaviour and rogue licensees.

Figures for the past three months released yesterday showed there were 76 arrests for alcohol-related offences, 190 people had alcohol seized from them by police, there were 380 police visits to licensed premises, 111 visits to off-licences and 133 checks on door supervisors.

The Government-led initiative, launched on Tuesday, was preceded by Sussex Chief Constable Ken Jones unveiling his Enough is Enough campaign.

Divisional commanders have followed suit with their own operations.

The force said the campaign will move into top gear next Thursday when new powers in the 2003 Licensing Act come into force.

Police will target premises identified as crime hotspots and bars and shops illegally selling alcohol to youngsters.

Mr Jones said his campaign had attracted considerable national interest and had already had positive effects in Sussex, with fewer crimes and more arrests.

The campaign will run through to the new year.

Mr Jones said: "Irresponsible elements of the drinks and entertainment industry were fuelling yob behaviour.

"The people of Sussex have had enough and so have I."

From next Thursday forces will be able to use new powers in the Act to:

Expand police powers to close down disorderly licensed premises including entertainment venues and night cafs.

Empower police and residents to seek a review of licences, backed by an extended range of measures including limiting opening hours.

Increase fines and allow personal licences to be suspended for up to six months following conviction for allowing disorderly conduct or sales of alcohol to people who are drunk.

Increase penalties for breach of licence conditions (fines of up to £20,000 or six months prison, or both).

Increase penalties (up to £5,000) for selling alcohol to children, with courts able to suspend or forfeit personal licences for a first offence.