Police are bearing the brunt of violent and anti-social incidents as alcohol-related crimes shoot up at an alarming rate across the county.

Statistics show that alcohol-related crimes in Haverfordwest have risen nearly 90% from 310 in 2004, to 585 last year - the highest total in Pembrokeshire.

Figures have risen from 190 to 291 in Milford Haven, 89 to 206 in Pembroke Dock and 145 to 192 in Tenby. In Fishguard figures have nearly quadrupled since 2004 to reach 122 in 2006.

These statistics relate to crimes reported to police by members of the public, and do not include arrests for drunkeness and public order offences Licensing officer Tony Davies presented the statistics at Friday's licensing sub-committee meeting, and said it was time to make a stand.

Mr Davies said: "I am asking this committee to help combat these problems. Police officers are out dealing with drunks, getting spat at and vomited on. This can't continue.

"We had two alleged stabbings at the county show, of all places.

"When are we going to make a stand? What does the committee intend to do about it?"

A statement on behalf of Dyfed-Powys police to the committee said that the increase in alcohol-related crimes gave them great concerns about public safety, and about officers having to deal with violent incidents.

The report added that alcohol is inextricably linked to disorder around licensed premises.

Mr Davies referred to the creep' effect of premises getting longer opening hours, and stated that granting extra hours could lead to an increase in crime, fear of crime and anti-social behaviour.

He said: "My officers are out there getting battered because of it. Are we going to have to tell milkmen that they can't deliver at 9am in the morning because it's not safe?"