Enjoy Christmas Responsibly

LICENSING officers and police are gearing up for the festive period by undertaking enforcement visits to licensed premises.

Officers are reminding licensees and their staff of their responsibilities with regards to the sale of alcohol and its effects on customers.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Executive Board Member for Public Protection Cllr Jim Jones said: “We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to join in the fun without celebrations getting out of hand.”

Recent changes to the licensing of entertainment provide greater freedom for live music to be provided between 8am and 11pm at a wider range of premises subject to certain limitations. Licensees are advised to contact the licensing section for more information regarding the Live Music Act 2012.

Licensees are also asked to be extra vigilant about serving to under-age customers or anyone who appears to be drunk or those that arrive at bars and clubs ‘pre-loaded’ (where large amounts of alcohol are drunk by persons at home or elsewhere before going out for the evening).

Customers are asked to cooperate with staff if asked to produce proof of age documents when purchasing alcohol.

Since the introduction of the Licensing Act 2003, premises have been licensed for a variety of activities, many with extended permitted hours, subject to compliance with specific licence conditions. Licensees and their staff are expected to have their licence documents properly displayed at the premises and be aware of what is required to comply fully with their licence conditions.

Police and licensing officers will also check that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure everyone enjoys a safe and peaceful festive period. If problems occur, the council and police will consider prosecutions and fixed penalty notices.

The Council’s Licensing Committee Chairman, Cllr. Tom Theophilus said: “Our aim is to make sure that premises are properly run and that everyone can enjoy themselves safely and responsibly over Christmas and the New Year.

For more information call the Licensing Section on 01267 234567 or e-mail: publicprotection@carmarthenshire.gov.uk