Watch Out!

by Niall McCann

There are numerous rules and regulations when it comes to licensing and it can be very tempting for operators to become relaxed over what can be perceived as mere technicalities.

J D Wetherspoon have recently be fined £3,300 and ordered to pay costs of £3,800 for selling alcohol without the benefit of a designated premises supervisor at one of its pubs. This is an offence pursuant to the Licensing Act 2003 and can attract a fine of up to £20,000 and/or six months imprisonment. Given the pressures of running a licensed premises it is all to easy to fall foul of the Licensing Act 2003, especially when it comes to procedural matters.

However, this case will no doubt serve as a warning to many operators – it can prove to be very expensive if you fail to have your administration in order!