STREET drinking on three Southampton estates is being targeted by police and council officers from today.

The three-month summer crackdown on antisocial drinking in a public places is taking place in Lordshill, Portswood and Millbrook.

Police, community support officers and council patrols will use powers under a drinking control order to seize cans, bottles and glasses, open or sealed.

The zone covered by the order has been extended from the city centre to the whole of Southamp-ton.

While police will not deploy new officers, existing patrols will be encouraged to make use of the powers. The council will in-crease its presence in the areas, putting additional signs and posters in pubs waning punters they are in a drinking control area.

Factsheets will also be available from housing offices, libraries and other public buildings.

Southampton City Councillor Royston Smith, Cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, said: "This campaign will enable us to take effective action to tackle the alcohol- related antisocial behaviour that is often prevalent at this time of year. The new powers don't affect sensible drinking where there is no antisocial behaviour."

Sgt Stewart Chandler said that in the city centre, where a control order has been in place since May 2004, between 15 and 20 people were challenged on a typical weekend night about drinking in public.

Most voluntarily disposed of their alcohol.

He added: "Not only can irresponsible drinking in public places lead to crime and disorder but people wandering around or loitering in public places drinking alcohol can be very intimidating for members of the public who come into contact with them."

A designated public places order (DPPO) makes it an offence to continue to drink alcohol after being asked to stop.

Police will be able to arrest those who refuse to hand over alcohol, while council and community support officers can request personal details.

Failure to comply could lead to a fine of up to £500 on conviction.