Morning lock-in at pub

Aug 12 2009 Bromborough and Bebington News

Morning lock-in at pub

A NEW Ferry pub had its licence suspended after police raided and found six patrons boozing two hours BEFORE opening time.

The Farmers Arms on New Chester Road, and licence-holder Admiral Taverns, now have 21 days to appeal against the decision reached last Thursday by Wirral Council’s licensing committee.

Merseyside Police raided the establishment at 10.25am on Thursday July 9, following a series of incidents, some violent, over the preceeding 15 months.

Officers found half a dozen patrons inside but Bromborough Cllr Steve Niblock said: “Whether they had been open all night, we’ll never know.

“They alleged they had only opened up when the police turned up.”

At the licensing committee meeting in Wallasey Town Hall, attended by Admiral Taverns, a complete revocation of the licence was considered but a 28 day suspension was deemed suficient.

The current designated premises supervisor was also removed from the licence.

Admiral Taverns said it intended to invest £65,000 in transforming the pub into a family food venue.

Cllr Niblock added: “It’s not had a reputation as a quality pub for a number of years.

“Certainly, New Ferry feels a bit quieter at the moment.

“Because it’s on the main shopping drag, it does mean that people can use the pavement.

“A lot of the clientele would bring drinks out onto the pavements with a cigarette and people couldn’t get past, particularly at peak times.”

Merseyside Police chief inspector Phil Davies said: “Where management does not meet the expected high standards, they may face having their licence removed.”

The pub closed ahead of the committee meeting due to a lack of beer, blamed on an administrative error.

A spokesperson for Admiral Taverns said: “The Farmers Arms is due to close for a total of 28 days by order of Wirral Council from August 25.

“This closure is temporary and we are planning to appeal against this decision.”