MFG Solicitors has launched the free service after West Mercia Police conducted a campaign to clarify licence conditions on the county’s licensed premises. It focused on issues such as opening hours, alcohol serving times, entertainment restrictions and safety.
The multi-agency operation also included Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and Herefordshire Council’s Licensing and Trading Standards officers. Nine different premises were visited as part of the operation.
As part of their offer to licensees, MFG will conduct a free review of existing premises licences or club premises certificates together with advice on any amendments which may need to be made.
Amanda Pillinger, a liquor licencing specialist at MFG who is leading the initiative, said: “It’s clear that the vast majority of pub landlords across Herefordshire want to be on the right side of the law and although this latest police crackdown is reasonable in many ways, we want to help ensure no licence holders in Herefordshire are issued with closure notices, hefty fines or at worst, prison sentences.
“The Premises Licences and Club Premises Certificates issued by the licensing authority are full of complicated conditions, some run into several pages, so it’s not surprising that many pub landlords I’ve spoken to are worried they are unwittingly breaking their terms and conditions. It’s a big issue we want to help resolve.
“Pubs and clubs across Herefordshire are vital contributors to the local economy so we are delighted to give our support by offering free, professional legal advice. We hope to work with as many as possible, especially at a time when they are under a very intense police spotlight.”
Temporary Inspector Dave Boote, who was lead officer for the police in the operation, said: “The agencies involved mainly used this operation as an opportunity to educate licensees but warning notices will now be sent to some premises in relation to the breaches that were found.
“Follow-up visits will take place at a later date to ensure the licensees and premises have acted on these warning notices.”
Visit www.mfgsolicitors.com for more details.