AN OFF-LICENCE application has been rejected after fears were expressed that it could lead to increases in under-age drink problems in Oswaldtwistle.

Linda Landon was applying for a licence to sell drink from her general store in Catlow Hall Street.

Hyndburn magistrates heard claims that another off-licence would add to existing problems of juvenile nuisance in the area.

John Sharpe, who runs Oswins off-licence in Union Road, opposed the licence, saying it would affect his business and there were already four off-licences within quarter of a mile.

He added: "There really is a problem with children drinking in Oswaldtwistle. They abuse people, break shop windows and I have been threatened several times.

"An additional off-licence will make life difficult for anyone living there and the police." Sergeant Brian Hopwood said more off-licences could lead to increased competition with the knock-on effect of licensees being driven to sell to underage drinkers.

The court heard that Mrs Landon and her husband Robert owned the general store and the chip shop next door. They opened the store three months ago.

Mrs Landon told magistrates that she ran the store and her husband, who runs the chip shop, had no involvement in her business.

She said: "Trade has been picking up but we do get requests for beer and spirits, especially as it is nearing Christmas. A licence will help the business take off."

Police objected to the application on the grounds that Mrs Landon's 38-year-old husband was not suitable.

Sgt Hopwood claimed Mr Landon's previous criminal record showed he had had a drink problem. He cited spent convictions for offences committed between 1970 and 1985, including assault, threatening behaviour and criminal damage.

His colleague, Sgt Ian Hanson, also cited an incident in June when Mr Landon was taken to Accrington police station in a drunken state in connection with allegations of breach of the peace and assault. No charges had been brought.

Mr Landon told magistrates the latest incident was a one-off following an argument with his brother about money.

He said the earlier offences had been committed when he was young and "foolish", and should have no bearing on the application.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.