Noise complaint pub pulls plug on DJs 'for the time being'

A publican threatened with a licence review after complaints from a nearby Travelodge has agreed to conduct a noise survey and temporarily suspend DJ gigs, after meeting with solicitors form the budget hotel chain.

Nigel Woolliscroft, of the Old Brown Jug, in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, said he was "happier" about the situation, following the meeting, but the chance of a review is still "in the balance".

More than 3,000 supporters of the pub, which hosts bands and DJs, have signed up to a Facebook campaign backing Nigel and his team at the Marston's-owned venue.

Travelodge took up the issue with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council after guests complained about noise.

And legal representatives from the pub and Travelodge met on Friday to try to thrash out a compromise.

"It was a satisfactory meeting and we are looking at a way forward to find a solution," said Nigel. "We have agreed to conduct an acoustic survey to assess the level of noise and could look to install equipment to cut it down."

He also agreed to stop DJs at the pub "for the time being".

"I feel happier we are moving in the right direction, but it's still in the balance whether we have to face a review, although both parties are trying to avoid that," added Nigel.

A spokesman for Travelodge previously said it was hoping the situation would be "easily resolved" and the last thing it wanted to do was "close the Old Brown Jug down".