The people of Rochdale will have to watch their mouths because of a proposed ban on swearing in the town centre.

Town hall bosses are planning to fine anyone caught using expletives in the Greater Manchester market town up to £100.

It is part of a planned crackdown on anti-social behaviour in the former mill town, giving enforcement officers powers to issue on-the-spot fines for anyone caught "using foul and abusive language".

The council leader has had to defend the plans after free speech advocates said issuing financial penalties as punishment would breach people's human rights.

Other activities that could be outlawed as part of the planned Public Space Protection Order include begging, playing loud music, loudly revving car engines, street drinking, unauthorised charity collecting, and skateboarding.