A man who ignored warnings to stop drinking alcohol in a North East town centre has been fined.

Ross Drury, 30, of Kentport Court, was caught breaching a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) imposed by Stockton Borough Council (SBC).

Teesside Magistrates’ Court was told how Drury was initially warned about drinking in Stockton town centre back in April 2023 – where he was also abusive and threatening towards a Civic Enforcement officer.

He was caught drinking in the town centre again in May last year, and after refusing to stop, was handed a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) which was not paid.

Drury was handed a £220 fine, £88 victim surcharge and ordered to pay £150 costs - which must be paid within 28 days, while a collection order was also made.

A PSPO was introduced in Stockton town centre and Norton town centre on April 3, 2023.

Councillor Norma Stephenson, SBC’s cabinet member for access, communities and community safety, said: “The PSPO in Stockton town centre and Norton town centre has really helped improve the levels of ant-social behaviour – and this sentencing is a welcome result.

“The message is clear that we will simply not tolerate unacceptable behaviour like this and you will face the consequences if you do not follow the rules.

“The town centre is there for everyone to enjoy and we will continue to take action against the small minority of people who flout the PSPO rules, which helps tackle aggressive begging and other forms of anti-social behaviour like drinking alcohol in the street. It’s great to hear from residents that their experience of the town centres is much better thanks to the PSPO.

“And of course, you can report any concerns regarding anti-social behaviour to our Civic Enforcement Service on 01642 528439 or by emailing civic.enforcement@stockton.gov.uk.”