Harrogate pub Coach and Horses appeals licence loss over lockdown breaches

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com 
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
A Harrogate pub which was stripped of its licence for breaching lockdown regulations has appealed against the decision.

The Coach and Horses on West Park had its licence revoked by Harrogate Borough Council for "blatantly disregarding" lockdown rules in May by setting up tables and chairs for customers buying takeaway drinks.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The council has now confirmed an appeal has been lodged by the landlord, John Nelson, but a hearing date has not yet been set.

Mr Nelson was served a prohibition notice on 31 May when crowds of up to 45 customers were observed gathering outside his pub.

The Coach and Horses has appealed against the council’s decision to revoke its licence.The Coach and Horses has appealed against the council’s decision to revoke its licence.
The Coach and Horses has appealed against the council’s decision to revoke its licence.

Police and council officers visited the pub several times across the Spring bank holiday weekend.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A council committee heard how Mr Nelson told officers he would only remove the outside furniture after the notice was served, but CCTV footage later showed customers continued to sit outside.

North Yorkshire Police said it received 44 complaints over the weekend about customers at the pub breaking social distancing rules.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

At the time, the lockdown regulations allowed the sale of takeaway alcohol but not for consumption on a pub premises or any outdoor area.

A lawyer for Mr Nelson told councillors he accepted he had made a "chronic error of judgement" and "hugely" regretted it.

Councillor Victoria Oldham said the pub had made a "serious failure" and showed a "blatant disregard" for lockdown restrictions.

It comes as a petition calling for the council to give Mr Nelson's daughter, Samantha, a licence to run the pub has been signed by more than 430 people.

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter

News you can trust since 1836
Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice