The day the music died...

SILENCED: Jacksons Pit

AN Oldham music venue has been silenced by one of the country’s leading judges — after playing recorded music without a licence.

The proprietor of Jackson’s Pit was banned from playing recorded tracks - and could face jail if he does.

Kevin Morrissey faced the legal music after an inspector for licensing organisation Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL) discovered copyright music being played without a licence.

High Court judge Mr Justice Sales ordered Morrissey - who didn’t attend the London hearing - to pay £1,846 in legal costs in the next 14 days. The ban also extends to any other premises he runs until he renew his licence.

Failure to obey the order would be regarded as contempt of court - which could lead to fines of up to £10,000 and six months in prison.

A PPL inspector heard commercial tracks being played at the cellar bar, off George Street. Solicitors wrote to invite him to acquire a licence, but responded that while he was the landlord, the occupier was his tenant ELQ Promotions Ltd. Letters to ELQ Promotions went unanswered.

Inquiries with Oldham Licensing Department confirmed Morrissey was the licence holder at the premises, and proceedings undertaken.