They are the key problems local police face every day - but this week the Cotmanhay Neighbourhood Management Group (CNMG) presented officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and Cotmanhay Rangers with a grant of £3,700 to help them buy a range of tools to tackle those who are drinking on the streets.

The money has helped to provide:

• 300 Citizen Cards, Government-backed proof of age cards (the only approved form of photo identification other than driving licenses);

• 500 alcohol test strips, which are used to test drinks in unmarked containers which the police suspect may be alcohol;

• Three digital breathalysers;

• Three digital cameras to record criminal damage, graffiti and domestic violence incidents.

PC Martin Booth of Derbyshire Police, said: "This equipment will enable us to capture vital evidence at the scene and help us in the fight against drunkenness and anti-social behaviour."

It is hoped the use of this equipment will lead to less visible on-street drinking; help to curb illegal alcohol sales; reduce levels of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour; allow licensees to verify the ages of persons trying to buy alcohol by providing citizen cards; and provide greater awareness of alcohol and substance misuse within the community.

Hayley Ash, Cotmanhay Neighbourhood Manager, added: "We are pleased to be able to help the police and our rangers tackle crime in Cotmanhay. Drinking on the streets is an offence and can often lead to far worse crimes. It also affects the residents who live in the areas this is taking place and we want people to be able to have more of a pride in the place they live."