The Council received a report from Derbyshire Police that Mr Gurpreethum Singh-Butoy, had been charged and convicted of a serious offence in Derbyshire whilst operating as an Off Licence Manager in Alfreton, Derbyshire.

Mr Singh-Butoy had been issued a licence under the Licensing Act 2003, by Ashfield District Council.

On the 14 April 2011, the Council successfully instigated proceedings and attended South Derbyshire Magistrates Court to request the court consider this matter and to take into account Mr Singh-Butoy’s Personal Licence.

The application to reconsider the matter was granted and the District Judge Alderson revoked the personal licence to sell alcohol on the grounds that:-

• The offence was of a serious nature
• Gurpreethum Singh-Butoy is not a fit and proper person to hold a personal licence
• Public safety is at risk
• There is a need to prevent crime and disorder

In addition to this the judge made an order for costs to the Council of £511.

Bill Buckley, Head of Health and Housing commented: “This is an excellent result for the Council and ensures that local residents are safe when visiting local off licences.  We want residents to be rest assured that the Courts and Ashfield District Council take these issues seriously”.