DRINKERS could be banned from a popular beauty spot because of the problems caused by anti-social behaviour.

The Sheepwash reservoir, at Osmotherley, near Northallerton, is owned by Yorkshire Water and the public has a right of access to the land around it. Over the years it has become popular with families and walkers.

Since a local problem solving group was formed in 2003, several successful measures have been taken to combat crime and disorder in the area and car crime in particular has decreased.

But incidents of drink-fuelled anti-social behaviour in the area are increasing and Hambleton District Council now wants to designate part of it as an alcohol-free zone.

Making it a designated public area would give police the power to confiscate alcohol from adults acting in a disorderly manner. The authority already has two such orders in place in Northallerton and Great Ayton.

According to a report to the council's cabinet, police and other officials are constantly being called to the area to deal with anti-social behaviour linked to alcohol.

Litter generated by people gathering in the area - often camping or barbecuing - usually consists a food packaging along with bottles and cans.

"These activities result in damage to trees and fences, which are cut down and damaged to provide combustible materials for fires," the report said.

"Fire damage is caused to live trees and the ground. The authorities called in to deal with these incidents clearly state alcohol is a factor. The volume of recovered bottles and cans can be up to six bin bags per visit."

A formal request has been received from police asking for the Sheepwash to become a designated public space - something which Yorkshire Water, as the landowner, is not objecting to.

"If the order is not made, there is a risk that alcohol-related anti-social behaviour will increase," said Hambleton's head of technical services, David McGloin.

The move would involve a one-off cost for the council of £3,000 for making the order and for erecting signs.

Councillors are expected to give it the go-ahead when they meet next week.