Licensees urged to help fight against crime

LOCAL licensees are to receive advice on how to tackle under-age drinkers and people who have drunk too much alcohol.

Partners led by High Peak Borough Council, Derbyshire Police and County Council Trading Standards are staging a free seminar in the Devonshire Dome on the University of Derby’s Buxton Campus on Tuesday, October 23 at 11am.

Invitations have gone out to licensees of pubs, bars and eating places across the High Peak, and further information is available from the borough council by calling 0845 129 7777 ext. 4512 or e-mailing licensing@highpeak.gov.uk.

Anthony McKeown, the borough council’s executive councillor for community services, said: “The High Peak is one of the safest places in the whole of the UK for residents, workers and visitors alike but we have to be conscious that serving alcohol to people who are already drunk – and to underage drinkers – is a national problem that all areas need to tackle.

“This training seminar is designed to ensure that licensees and designated premises supervisors fully understand their legal duties. The training will also help licensees to review their current recording systems and, where necessary, implement more robust ones that will help them meet their duties. I’d urge licensees to attend this seminar.

“As one of the local enforcement authorities, the borough council is pledging to continue to carry out spot checks on licensed premises throughout the year to ensure they’re complying with the law. Officers are available by telephone or appointment if licensees need advice or help”.

A register of licensees attending the seminar will be kept for reference should problems occur in future at premises where training was not sought.

Insp. Martin Coey, who is in charge of policing in the Buxton, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Whaley Bridge and Hope Valley area, said: “We would encourage as many local licensees as possible to come along to the seminar and top up their knowledge of licensing issues.

“While we continue to work hard with partnership agencies to keep the High Peak safe, we need the support of the people who manage local pubs, bars and restaurants”.