As the race season returns to Chester this week, Chester Racecourse is showing its support for the Cheshire West and Chester Council-run Drink Less, Enjoy More campaign.

The aim is to reduce drunkenness and anti-social behaviour in the city, as well as raising awareness of the hefty fines that can be incurred.

People buying alcohol for someone who is clearly drunk, or bar staff serving someone who is clearly drunk, could be potentially fined up to £1,000, while premises found to be serving people who are clearly drunk run the risk of losing their licence.

Mark Wilcockson, head of HR at Chester Racecourse, said: “Our bar staff and stewards are well-trained and monitor drinking behaviour throughout the event.

"We want people to have an enjoyable time at the races and we encourage people to drink sensibly, enjoy their day and stay safe.”

Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing at Cheshire West and Chester Council, Cllr Louise Gittins, added: “It’s important to get this message out to residents and visitors.

"Drunkenness can have serious health consequences, including alcohol poisoning and can contribute to sexual violence, violent crimes and accidents. It also places a huge burden on our health, police and other public services at a time when they are already stretched.

"Alcohol misuse is estimated to cost public services within the borough £129m a year. The police are actively enforcing these laws and encouraging people to drink sensibly, consequently creating a safer city for residents, students and visitors.”

More information can be found at www.drinklessenjoymore.co.uk, liking on Facebook at www.facebook.com/drinklessenjoymore or following on Twitter @drinkless_enjoy.