Town pub linked to 63 incidents in two years sees hours reduced and more security

'NO BLAME, PROSECUTION OR BREACHES' ON INN, SAYS OFFICIAL

- By EDDIE BISKNELL

A TOWN centre pub had its licence reviewed after police voiced concerns about the venue being connected to “serious disorder”.

While the Market Inn’s staff and owners were not subject to any prosecution, the Ilkeston venue saw its hours reduced following a hearing this week.

The police's main concern with the pub was the part it played in the events leading up to the death of 19-year-old Liam Derrett on June 1. Its licence was temporarily suspended between June 6 and June 14, and it has now been permanently changed.

Once the changes come into effect, the Market Inn will see its opening hours amended. On Fridays and Saturdays, the venue will need to close its doors at 1am, with last sales being made at 12.30am.

Between Sunday and Thursday, doors will have to close at 12.30am, with last drinks sold before midnight.

Additionally, a new condition was added to the license detailing that “appropriate security arrangements” should be in place, including toilet areas and other similar areas being regularly checked for evidence of drugs.

"An agreement was reached between the police and the licence holder," said Inspector Daniel Handley-Farrell. “We will make sure police are in the area when they need to be.”

He said an increased police presence, especially on weekend nights, would be consulted with the local Community Inspector and the Chief Safety Inspector.

The police also mentioned that the Market Inn had been “very cooperative” during the inspections.

"The right decision has been made,” said licensing executive Mark Dunn.

“There is no blame on the Market Inn, no prosecutions or breaches - but these measures will hopefully help reduce large late-night gatherings that could turn into violence.”