POLICE are warning they will take a tough line on drunken behaviour this Christmas.

On Boxing Day, women in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, traditionally celebrate Ladies' Day.

Chief Inspector Ken Gill said: "Each year in Scarborough, we see the Ladies' Day celebrations set off as light-hearted jovial affairs which, after several hours of binge drinking, can turn ugly and in some cases violent.

"Last year's event saw 36 arrests and this year we have the added complication of the York City versus Scarborough game, which poses other potential problems."

Chief Insp Gill said he wanted people to enjoy themselves and have a good time, but drunkenness would not be allowed to become an excuse for violence or criminality.

"I am putting out well over 100 officers this year, some specialist units skilled in dealing with public order problems and additional dog section personnel are being drawn from across North Yorkshire to support their local colleagues in what will be a challenging day for the police," he said.

"While my overall plan is to prevent and avoid trouble, rest assured we will intervene robustly if it occurs."

Police have warned fans attending the football match that it is an offence to attempt to enter or be in a football ground while drunk.

Chief Insp Gill said: "The message is very simple: Come to the coast, have a good day, know when you have had enough to drink - and stop. A criminal conviction can be for life, not just for Christmas."