DRINKERS will be told to stay away from certain areas of a common which is popular during summer to stop “rowdy behaviour”.

Signs will be put in place to deter visitors to Odney Common, Cookham, drinking alcohol.

Cookham Parish Council clerk Anne Osborne said: “We are going to organise some new signs that will say that you can't be drinking in certain areas.

“If you have a sign then the police can take action for misbehaviour.”

Although there have been “no major incidents” yet, police are unable to act without the notices in place, she said.

Councillors hope it will prevent “slightly rowdy behaviour or things that put the public in danger” and “irresponsible behaviour exacerbated by alcohol” Mrs Osborne said.

“With more hot weather coming we will be more aware of it,” she added.

The common's proximity to the River Thames and the lock makes it possible for accidents to happen, she said.

It is a popular spot for families having barbecues during summer months.