No opening late at Cheeky’s for racing

A police chief has objected to late opening at a Troon pub after three assaults.

Cheeky Charlies wanted a 3.30am close during three nights for the Ayr Gold Cup.

But a councillor questioned why the Templehill venue should stay open as the racing weekend is in Ayr.

South Ayrshire Police Chief Inspector Brian Anderson voiced concerns about the late licence application.

He told the South Ayrshire Council licensing board three assaults had taken place at the night spot.

Cheeky Charlies boss Christopher Morrison said he was extremely “disappointed” the incidents were “being held against us.”

He told the board the venue had 16 CCTV cameras and regularly supplied officers with footage to help other investigations. The pub boss said he gave away 20,000 bottles of water to encourage responsible drinking.

Pointing out how other boozers had closed in Troon, he said:“Granting extended hour applications is imperative for businesses to suceed.”

Mr Morrison also said he is a basketball coach with schools and has clocked up 1000 volunteering hours.

He added:“If you restrict my business capabilities it will have an impact on what I can do in the community.”

Councillor Pollock said:“If you take the violence out of it it is about whether the Gold Cup in Ayr is relevant to a premises in Troon.”

Councillor Siobhian Brown voiced concerns about officers stationed in Ayr for the racing having to be diverted to Troon.

Mr Morrison said:“We have people staying in Troon for the Ayr Gold Cup.”

The application for extended hours on September, 19, 20 and 21 was refused. But Cheeky Charlies was granted permission to open late during the Ayrshire Beer Festival in october and Winterstorm in November.