I HAVE seen in public notices that Wyre Forest District Council have applied to themselves for two licences in respect of the Civic Centre, Stourport and the Town Hall, Kidderminster.

The hours applied for are 9am until 2.30am (alcohol) and a food request from 11pm until 5am - all are Monday until Sunday.

I am aware of several applications already put before the licensing committee that have been "knocked back" and had conditions imposed.

Previously, all liquor licence applications were heard by a totally independent body - the magistrates. They had no financial interest or tie to licensed premises.

Now all applications are put before a committee of local councillors - Wyre Forest District Council.

Can they really stand in judgement of a licence that affects them? I think not.

Who "polices" the police? And who pays for these licences? Us.

Do the electorate want the council to run licensed premises and spend our hard-earned money?

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED