Licensees given closure warning

Almost one fifth of licensed premises still face closure despite publicity over the need for new alcohol-sales regulations to be met, a council says.

Businesses in West Dorset have been warned that existing licences will be cancelled under the new laws.

The council estimates 19% of premises have not applied for a new licence.

The law switches responsibility for licensing the sale of alcohol from magistrates to councils and comes into force on 24 November.

Those without licences face prosecution if they continue to trade and will have to close until they have a new licence in place.

New applications for premises, including pubs, clubs, cinemas, off-licenses, community centres and theatres, have to be in to the council by 24 September.

Robert Gould, leader of West Dorset District Council, said: "Time is fast running out, and the onus is on the trade to submit their applications as soon as possible."