Pub landlady queries band contest security

DEBBIE HARDIE: “We have never had any trouble on Whit Friday”

A landlady is questioning security for the Whit Friday Saddleworth Brass Band Contest.

Debbie Hardie wants statistics of alleged trouble hot-spots after police said six pubs, including hers, will have to pay for security staff at their premises during this year's event.

Oldham Council and police revealed their strategy yesterday for the contests, which are expected to attract thousands into the area.

They highlighted six Uppermill pubs which must supply accredited security staff and use plastic glasses for drinks.

Mrs Hardie, landlady of The Granby Arms on Uppermill's High Street for the past four years, said: "I want to know how many incidents and emergency calls were logged on Whit Friday over recent years.

"We have never had any trouble on Whit Friday in the pub during my time here. Employing security staff on the day will cost hundreds of pounds."

She said she is planning to seek election to Saddleworth Parish Council next year in a bid to protect the area's traditions and heritage.

She added: "I truly believe traditions like the brass band contests must be protected. They are being weighed down with bureaucracy "

Meantime, other pubs affected by the new security measures are still considering their options.

A spokesperson for the Hare and Hounds on High Street said: "We don't know if this going to be a safe system.

"We feel threatened by the approaches from the different agencies and closure hangs over us if arrangements are breached."

Julian Taylor landlord of the Church Inn, another pub named as having to have security, said: "Whit Friday is one of the quietest nights of the year.

"We don't have a contest here but I can understand the situation from everyone's view."

A GMP spokesperson said there were six incidents involving a range of drink-related and public order offences reported at last year's Whit Friday contests and 20 the year previously.

The six pubs which must supply Security Industry Association (SIA) accredited security staff and polycarbonate glasses are: The Granby Arms, The Wagon and Horses, The Hare and Hounds, The Commercial, and Uppermill Conservative Club all High Street, Uppermill, plus the Church Inn, Running Hill Gate, Uppermill.

Several off-licences must also close at 10pm and supply door staff from 4pm onwards.

These are: Raja Bros, Oldham Road, Springhead; Simply Drinks, Chew Valley Road, Greenfield; Co-op, Chew Valley Road, Greenfield; Co-op, High Street, Uppermill; Co-op, King Street, Delph; Spar, High Street, Uppermill; Dobcross Post Office.

Diggle Post Office, which is licensed to sell wines and beers, will close at 7pm on May 28 only.