Pubs helped to fill in 24-hour forms (From Warrington Guardian)

Pubs helped to fill in 24-hour forms

ROADSHOWS have been organised to help members of the pub and club trade battle through complicated applications for new licences, which could enable them to open for 24-hour drinking.

Forms will be given out at these open days, which will also give licensees the chance to discuss their changing licensing needs in the light of the relaxed policy adopted by Vale Royal Borough Council.

The council has been able to receive applications for extended opening hours since Monday but, as the Guardian went to press, none had been received.

Andy Challinor, who has been coordinating the council's new licensing policy, said: "At the open days we'll be able to discuss with people what they want and which form they need to fill in.

"It's very complicated and there's only a six-month period if people want to convert."

Licensing officers from the council and Cheshire Police will be on hand to offer advice on how best to approach applications and how to fill in the forms.

The roadshows will be held at Winsford Civic Hall on Friday, February 11, Frodsham Community Centre on Tuesday, February 15, and Northwich Memorial Hall on Thursday, February 17.

The relaxation of licensing laws in Vale Royal brings the borough in line with national policy to allow longer opening hours in a bid to cut down on drink-fuelled violence and anti-social behaviour.

Authorities hope that extending opening hours will reduce drunkenness caused by rapid drinking before closing time and staggered closing times in town centres will cut down on large numbers of drunks being on the streets at the same time.

Vale Royal Borough Council's new licensing policy can be viewed on the website www.valeroyal.gov.uk.

l What do you think about plans to allow pubs and clubs to open around the clock?

Is 24-hour opening a good idea and will it help to curb the problems of drink-fuelled anti-social behaviour?

Let us know your views. Email northwich@guardiangrp.co.uk. We would be particularly interested in the views of health professionals and those working in the criminal justice system.