InBrief

Licensees risk smoke-ban charge

Licensees of a Norfolk pub could be the next to face prosecution for allegedly flouting the smoking ban. Nigel Burrows, principal environmental health officer at Breckland Council, said it was "almost inevitable" that he would recommend Martin and Karen Turver of the Dog & Partridge, East Wretham, face prosecution.

Teens consume more alcohol

Fewer teens are drinking alcohol but those who do are consuming more, a new survey shows. An annual poll of 8,200 11 to 15 year-olds by the Information Centre found 21% had an alcoholic drink in the previous week, down from 26% in 2001. The average consumption was 11.4 units, up from 10.4 units in 2000.

Michael Wilson is new SIA chief

Michael Wilson, former chief executive of the Gangmasters Licensing Authority, has been named as the new chief executive of door-staff regulator the Security Industry Authority. He takes over from acting CEO Andy Drane. Wilson said: "I am particularly interested in improving our service to customers to ensure that we minimise any regulatory burden on the industry."

Orchid is first Red Tractor pubco

Managed operator Orchid Group has become the first pub company to be named a Red Tractor licensee. This means it uses "Red Tractor" food, produced by an alliance of farmers, processors, retailers and distributors who are working to raise production standards. The certification is across Orchid's contemporary carvery estate.

Inspired Gaming's new strategy man

Inspired Gaming Group has appointed Paul Marsh as director of strategy at its pubs and bars division. Marsh is a past winner of the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers' Operations Manager of the Year award. He worked as a consultant with London Town after its purchase of 167 pubs last year.

Computer aid for flooded FSB pubs

Flood-hit pubs that are members of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) are being offered reduced rates on computer equipment that needs to be replaced. Under a deal with Dell, the FSB aims to get computers fitted quickly to help businesses recover. xyxyxyx xyxyxy xyxyxyx xyxyxyx xyxyxyxy xyxyxyxyx yy xyxyxy xyxyx x yx xyx yxyxyxy x yxyxyx xy xyxyxyx yxy xyxyxy xyxyx xy xyxyx yxyx yxyxyx yxyxy xyxy xyxyx xyxyx xyxyx xyxy x yxyxyxyx xy xxy x xy x yxy.