Since the introduction of the 2003 Licensing Act, anyone wishing to sell alcohol or provide public entertainment has to adhere to a dual system of licensing - personal and premises licenses.

To encourage a more European, café-culture approach to drinking, the new law does not set specific opening hours but licensees have more responsibility.

You are now required to apply for a Premises and Personal Licence for the provision of public entertainment or the sale of alcohol. For the latter you are required to sit the new National Certificate for Personal Licence Holders (NCPLH) examination.

All licenses are 'policed' by the local authorities and each application is subject to the views of the police, residents and environmental health officers, amongst others. It is therefore important to receive strong, independent advice. We can help you with all licensing matters including liquor, betting, gaming, public entertainment and late night licenses. Services include:

• Applications for new licences
• Variation or Transfer of licences
• Personal licences
• Designated Premises Supervisor
• Reviews of Premises licences
• Licensing Appeals
• Temporary Event Notices
• Outdoor Events and Festivals
• Premises licences