Grantham pubs and off-licenses may face a levy of up to £4,400 to fund extra police patrols, after district councillors agreed to an 'urgent review' of whether or not to introduce such a charge.

The cabinet of South Kesteven District Council backed a move by Grantham councillor Ray Wootten, who likened Grantham to the "Wild West", saying "action needs to be taken."

Coun Wootten told yesterday's meeting, the last to be held by SKDC for some time because of the Coronavirus, that Grantham has seen a number of alcohol-related incidents of violence.

These included an assault near the Kings Arms in Westgate, where the victim later died, leading to calls for a Pubwatch scheme.

Last week also saw a female having glasses thrown at her at the Black Dog Pub between 1am and 1.30am.

Coun Wootten said in January, 153 offences were reported to Lincolnshire Police that took place in the town centre, including 33 violent and sexual offences and 34 of anti-social behaviour.

Government legislation, he continued, allows local authorities to introduce a levy on places selling acohol of between £299 and £4,400 annually towards the cost of policing the night-time economy between 12am and 6am.

Coun Wootten called for a visible police presence to deter crime and whilst SKDC rejected such a levy in 2016, circumstances can change. The same is trust for measures to restrict alcohol sales in early mornings.

He also told the meeting: "I say that there is enough evidence that Grantham is becoming like the Wild West and action needs to be taken to protect our residents, pub and club landlords in the early hours."

Asking for a review to be carried out by Licensing Committee, Coun Wootten added: "We have a duty to show leadership and a duty of care."

Council leader Kelham Cooke responded: "It is a very serious matter. In a sad way with the Coronavirus people won't be going out as much. Looking at my cabinet colleagues, this is a very worthwhile thing you have brought to us. You have the cabinet support in bringing that forward."

However, with the council stopping meetings due to the Coronavirus, it remains uncertain when such a review may take place.