Resort refuses party 'disaster'

An annual beach party in Portrush will not be held again because of the anti-social behaviour of some people in the County Antrim resort.

About 18,000 people went to this year's event, headlined by the Chemical Brothers, but businesses lobbied the council not to hold another.

"It was a bit of a disaster," said councillor and retailer Norman Hillis.

"The venue was ok, but there was a lot of drink on the streets, not a place for families, and business suffered."

Mr Hillis added: "It was trouble with a capital T. Guest-house owners reported people leaving, restaurants said customers left, and there were residents up in arms because of the urinating on the streets and in gardens."

A beach party has been held at the East Strand in Portrush since 2006, featuring acts like Basement Jaxx, Fatboy Slim and the Happy Mondays.

"It's not about old farts who don't want to do anything for young people, we just don't want all that trouble," said Mr Hillis.

A statement from Coleraine Borough Council said it recently received a request to hold another beach party in 2009.

"Council declined the proposals and confirmed that they would consider alternative entertainment to attract a different target audience, which would not result in anti-social behaviour, upsetting to both residents and local business proprietors," said the statement.

"It is important to council to attract tourists to the area of Portrush and a major campaign has been ongoing throughout the year to attract families to come as both day trippers and weekenders to enjoy one of Northern Ireland's most scenic and enjoyable areas."