POLICE on Teesside are bracing themselves for a boozy weekend ahead.

Some 13 pubs and clubs in Hartlepool are set to stay open until 4am this coming weekend after the Government's new laws on 24-hour drinking comes into force on Thursday.

Police in the town have warned licensees that if violence and disorder gets out of control, then their licenses could be revoked.

Licensing officer Pc Paul Hanson said: "If a club fails to recognise the rules, is causing noise or nuisance to the neighbourhood, or we anticipate trouble, we can close it down for the night to avoid it.

"Once the problem has dispersed and we're happy with that, we'll revoke the closure order. We can even get their licences reviewed by the local authorities Licensing Committee.

"I know the pubs and clubs are in business to make money, but, if they don't toe the line, then there will be repercussions."

Bars staying open until 4am in the Church Street area include Shades, The Office, Kal's Bar, Rocky's Bar, Silks, The Lighthouse, Coast, Oliver's and Shout.

Other bars staying open include Loons, Bar Paris and Club Attitude.

Coasters and 42nd Street have also been granted permission to stay open late, but are currently closed, while The Hillcarter and The Emporium are still waiting to hear if they have been successful.

They cannot stay open past 4am, but may close beforehand, if they wish.

Pc Hanson added: "I personally anticipate that the new closing times will create a surge in people staying out until 4am to start with, but once they grow accustomed to it, it'll lose it's appeal."