Camden bar fined for breach of licence

An exclusive Camden bar has become the first in the borough to be prosecuted for breach of licence.

The Asylum, which has since closed down after the landlord re-took possession, was raided by police in December last year following a history of complaints. It had been permitted to sell alcohol until midnight, Monday to Saturday, providing customers were having a meal. Part of the licence also required all customers to be members and to have joined at least two days prior to being allowed into the club. It wasn't allowed to sell alcohol to be consumed outside and was only allowed recorded music, including karaoke.

Camden licence officers visited the club just after midnight and were allowed in despite not being members of the bar and it being after permitted hours. They saw alcohol being sold and people ordering drinks without a substantial meal. The police were called, who closed the premises shortly afterwards on the same night.

Mark Shaffer, designated premises supervisor of the Asylum, was fined £750 and ordered to pay Camden Council's costs of £1886.25.

Cllr Don Williams, chair of Camden Council's Licensing Committee, said: "Camden Council's job as the licensing authority is to act in the best interests of local people and deal with any concerns relating to a breach of a licence. Most licensees, following support and guidance from the council, work within the law. However, the council and the police will enforce licensing policy and take action where it is needed."