A LANDLORD is defending his pub against critics who oppose his application for a 24-hour licence.

Darren Noyce, who runs the Brewers Arms in Martinstown, said that a lot of complainants who had written to the licensing officer simply did not understand what the new laws meant.

People living near the pub have written to West Dorset District Council highlighting a range of issues from slamming doors, increased traffic, taxis and late night music.

Many said they supported the village pub in its current state but opposed changes to its licence.

Jenny Barford, who lives at Burnside in the village, said: "It's not the problems we have got, it's the problems that might occur."

She said that she could often hear music from the pub but had no problem with it ending at 11pm. She added that residents would be kept awake by people leaving the pub late at night.

Villager Peter Thomas said the extended licence would 'create the potential for numerous problems within a quiet and peaceful village'.

He added the Brewers Arms had an important role in the community but said: "To trade and entertain late into the night could attract a completely different type of customer to the pub."

Landlord Darren Noyce said the license was a chance to try new ideas for the pub, such as opening for people who worked irregular hours and added it did not mean the pub would be open 24 hours a day.

"We're down on last year's trading. We have got to look at all our options," he said.

He said the two-and-a-half years he had spent running the pub had been very difficult and added: "We're up against a brick wall - there are barriers all the time. "The people who are moaning don't use the pub.

"They have got to get a grip, they really have."

He defended the pub saying it had sponsored many local events and helped with fireworks and free New Year's Eve parties. He added: "The village pub is the hub of the community - or it should be."

Mr Noyce said that the granting of a licence did not mean the situation was open to abuse and said: "No-one is above the law - they can come and take away a licence at any time."

He said that the complaints had come from a minority of people and added: "Some don't appear to understand the licensing system."

"A landlord who is unsuitable can be prosecuted."