A CHURCH has applied for a licence to sell alcohol during functions such as concerts and shows.

Holy Trinity Church, Colne, launched its new performing arts venue in January, which was aimed at allowing local groups, such as bands and drama societies, an area in which to practise and host performances.

Now the church and community hall has asked Pendle Council for a licence to sell alcohol on days when performances to the public are taking place.

But the application has met with opposition from residents near the church, in Burnley Road, with a 27-signature petition urging the council to turn down the request.

A spokesman for the church said in the application: “No alcohol is to be left or stored on the premises except on the day of the function.

“Members of the church council or the caretaker will volunteer to act as stewards at functions serving alcohol.

“Stewards will be responsible for ensuring excess noise is not emitted from the premises when functions take place.

“Notices will be put up at exits asking people leaving the premises to be quiet and think about our neighbours.

“All stewards will have contact numbers for the emergency services.”

The petition said that residents who had signed it felt the application would be “unacceptable due to noise, appearance, alcohol consumption, disorder and public nuisance upsetting the tranquility of the area”.

Under the application they will be able to serve alcohol until 11pm from Sunday to Thursday and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and 1am on New Year’s Eve.