Mother denies garage drinks sales

A mother accused of running an illegal bar in the garage of her Teesside home has denied selling alcohol.

Police claimed to have found a fully functioning bar, with price lists, a jukebox and a fruit machine, after raiding June Barugh's home on Friday.

But the 52-year-old, of Alford Street in Brotton, near Saltburn, said she had never served alcohol or snacks to the local youngsters who gathered there.

Police are investigating alleged offences under The Licensing Act 2003.

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Pub mother speaks out

A Cleveland Police spokesman said Mrs Barugh was arrested during a raid, which was prompted by complaints of anti-social behaviour from neighbours.

However, Mrs Barugh claims the bar has helped reduce the problem of bored local youngsters gathering on the streets.

Her son Adam, 19, socialises in the bar and his friends bring their own cans of alcohol.

Mrs Barugh said: "I do not sell alcohol, never have done, and I don't sell snacks as I could not afford to.

"When they do come up the older ones bring cans, about four or five cans each.

"The rule is that you do not get drunk in the house and you do not disrespect me or the house.

"(The youngsters) say that if this place was not here they would be getting into trouble hanging around the streets with nothing to do."