PLAYING themes to classic children's shows is the latest weapon in the fight against city centre trouble - but York pub bosses have shunned the idea.

On trial in Leicester to cut late night violence, pubs and clubs have been asked to play themes from TV classics such as Magic Roundabout and Ivor the Engine in the hope that the songs will calm tempers, prevent brawls and send revellers home peacefully. Hearing the tunes "should bring people back to their childhoods and stop any confrontations," say the scheme's backers.

Lollipops will also be handed out to occupy the minds and hands of would-be battlers.

But the scheme hasn't fallen favour with York landlords.

"We don't have problems in here anyway," said Caroline Hickey, of the Lowther, Cumberland Street, which has been recently granted an hour's extension on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

"But even if we did, I wouldn't use this technique. I think it would actually cause more problems.

"If people hear these sort of tunes they will start prancing about and being silly, probably enough to knock someone over and start a fight. I think it is a terrible idea and would never work."

Another, who asked to remain anonymous, said that he'd sooner leave the trade than play these tunes in his pub.

"If I can't get out the drinkers using traditional methods then I shouldn't be doing the job," he said.

"It is ridiculous. If we wanted children's music we'd allow underage drinking. No, it is a stupid idea."

He added that drinkers could better be pacified by kebabs than lollipops.

Licensing officer PC Ashley Fitzhugh is also not convinced by the idea.

"I've heard of giving out lollipops but the rest of it is new to me," he said. "I suppose all initiatives are welcome in the fight to cut down on disorder but this is not one I've considered. Maybe it will work, but I'm not convinced."

He added that police in York had no plans to adopt a similar system, unless "someone is desperate to try it".

Updated: 10:30 Saturday, May 26, 2001