HAPPY hour down the local boozer is a thing of the past, thanks to new licensing conditions brought in this month.

HAPPY hour down the local boozer is a thing of the past, thanks to new licensing conditions brought in this month.

Uttlesford District Council can now take swift action against pubs, bars and clubs who use "irresponsible promotions" to sell drinks such as happy hours or 'speed drinking' competitions.

The new licensing laws are designed to reduce alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.

Assistant chief executive at the district council, Michael Perry, takes responsibility for licensing and enforcement.

He said: "These new conditions aim to reduce binge drinking and the crime and anti-social behaviour associated with it.

"The onus is on licence holders to ensure they comply with these new conditions. Any licensees who are unsure as to what is required of them are invited to contact the council's licensing team on 01799 510598 for clarification."

Two other new mandatory conditions also came into effect at the same time, on April 6, and a further two will be introduced later this year.

The first of these prevents anyone from dispensing alcohol directly into the mouth of another unless that person is unable to drink without assistance due to a disability.

The third ensures that free tap water is made available to customers where it is reasonably practical to do so.

Also, from October 1 a premises licence holder must ensure that there is an age verification policy in place and make sure alcoholic drinks are available in smaller measures such as half-pints for beer or cider, 25ml or 35ml measures for spirits or 125ml glasses of wine.

License holders who ignore the rules can be investigated and possibly have their licenses revoked.

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