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To be a Club or not to be, that is the question:

Gateshead Council yesterday confirmed two prosecutions against Clubs within the Borough. 

The Royal Association of the Order of the Buffalo Club in Birtley and the Spen Excelsior Club in High Spen were ordered to pay £1215 each in terms of fines and costs by Gateshead Magistrates for ‘retailing’ alcohol to non members.

Both clubs, it is reported, hold Club Premises Certificates (CPC) as opposed to Premises Licences. Although there are a number of differences between the two permissions a prime difference concerns the sale / supply of alcohol. While a Premises Licence can permit a premises to ‘retail’ alcohol to members of the public, in a Club which operates under a CPC, alcohol may only be ‘supplied’ to members or their guests.

Although the distinction between a ‘retail sale’ and ‘supply of alcohol’ may appear rather abstract in the real world it is crucial in determining what activities a Club can engage in and to whom they can entertain.

In these pressing financial times, Clubs, like many other organisations, may be looking to maximise income from their assets. The hiring of function suites has long been the source of additional income. Before accepting such bookings, it is strongly recommend you consider the terms of your ‘licence’. 

There are many solutions to these issues such as a Temporary Event Notice or seeking a Premises Licence; Clubs are not limited to only having a CPC.

If you would like to discuss the terms of your Certificate, the various options open to you or the distinctions between the 2 permissions, please feel free to contact us and one of our solicitors would be happy to discuss this with you.