Flurry of booze applications knocked back

early morning drinking before the January 19 showdown.

Despite the historic nature of the sporting event, the department decided to maintain their stance on trying to clamp down on excess boozing during football.

The East Ayrshire Licensing board depute clerk Stuart McCall told councillors it was important to maintain the standard policy and have consistency.

He pointed to Celtic and Rangers matches as examples of tense clashes requiring robust licensing rules.

Mr McCall said: “The standard practice is games start early and the reason for that is to limit the amount of alcohol supporters can have.”

“We all know the outcome excess alcohol can have in certain circumstances.”

Congragulating Talbot, he added: “We are all delighted to see the result.

“The maintenance of the policy is important so we are not accused of favouritism.”

Some venues wanted to offer breakfast to supporters.

Auchinleck Talbot defeated Ayr by one goal to nil.

Alcohol was not permitted inside the grounds and fans were told they would be refused entry if intoxicated.

However the licensing board made a slight concession for the Auchinleck Talbot versus Hearts game on Sunday, February 10.

Venues were given permission to open from 10am only if supporter buses were due to leave from their premises.