Folkestone Chronicle 25-8-1900
Editorial
That Justices may not unwittingly transgress the Licensing
Acts, it may not be out of place to remind them that they are disqualified for
either adjudicating upon renewals and new applications or for doing what the
Acts regard as practically the same thing – taking part in the selection of the
Licensing Committee – if they are either pecuniarily interested in brewery or
distillery shares, or in premises which are licensed, or which are the subject
of an application for a licence to sell intoxicating liquors, providing such
brewery or premises be in the same or an adjoining district to that in which
the Justice acts. Nor would it be necessary in order to disqualify the
shareholder that the brewery itself should be within such limits, if it had
tied houses which were.
Local News
At the Licensing Sessions on Wednesday, Mr. Mowll made a
strong point in opposing an off-licence by mentioning the danger of giving
children the opportunity of visiting the “publics” by fetching the “grown up”
beer. We have before gone into the matter. The publicans themselves, we
believe, if canvassed, would be the first to discourage children of tender
years acting as jug carriers, but until a law is passed, the licence holder is
helpless, because if he acts he offends a customer.
Folkestone Express 25-8-1900
Annual Licensing Meeting
Wednesday, August 22nd: Before J. Hoad Esq.,
Alderman Pledge, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, W. Wightwick, J. Fitness, and C.J.
Pursey Esqs.
Supt. Reeve presented the following report: I have the honour
to report that there are within the Borough 140 houses licensed for the sale by
retail of intoxicating drink. The present estimated population of the borough
is, I believe, 28,500. This gives an average of about 203 persons to each
licence. Tow of the licence holders have been proceeded against for offences
under the Licensing Acts, but only one was convicted. In the preceding year
five were proceeded against and four convicted. Twenty eight of the licences
have been transferred during the year. There are two places licensed for public
billiard playing, and 13 licences are granted for public music and dancing. One
hundred and fifteen persons (85 males and 30 females) have been proceeded
against for drunkenness – 57 of them were residents of the borough and 58
strangers. One hundred and seven were convicted and eight discharged. This is
an increase of 26 persons proceeded against as compared with the previous year.
One person has been convicted for refusing to quit licensed premises when
requested. The majority of the licensed houses are, I believe, well conducted,
and the only objection I have to offer is to the renewal of two of the present
music and dancing licences. I have received notice from six persons of their
intention to apply for new licences at these sessions. The licences existing
are: Full licences (one 6 day), 86; beer “on”, 11; beer and wine “on”, 3; wine “on”
(3 6 day), 3; beer “off”, 9; wine “off”, 4; beer and wine “off”, 4; spirits and
wine “off”, 3; spirits and beer “off”, 8; spirits “off”, 1; beer, spirits and
wine “off”, 6; wine, spirits, beer and sweets “off”, 3; Total 140.
Mr. Wightwick asked if any of the persons convicted for
drunkenness were excursionists?
The Superintendent said most of them were strangers, and
there were very few excursionists indeed.
The full licences to sell intoxicating liquors were then all
renewed.
Folkestone Herald
19-1-1901
Felix
If there is a watering place in the United Kingdom that
ought to be justly proud of the magnificence of its hotels, surely it ought to
be Folkestone. Strange, then, it is to read the following:- “The Folkestone
Arms Commercial Hotel and Excise Office is the principal hotel in Folkestone,
and one, as regards comfort and convenience, of which any town might be proud.
The beds are excellent; of the cookery the choicest epicure could not complain;
the wines and spirits challenge competition with any; the management reflecting
the greatest credit; the posting equal to any on the road; and, though last,
not least of its recommending qualities, the charges reasonable.” The site of
this hotel was in Bayle Street, near the Herald printing works of today. Mr.
Venner, the present genial proprietor of the Rose will probably learn that his
house in the far-off days I am alluding to was considered a “a very comfortable
establishment, with good accommodations, including stabling and lock-up
coach-houses. It is situated in Broad Street (now High Street), opposite the
entrance from Sandgate Road, commanding a fine land prospect, and within a few
minutes` walk of the beach. Coaches and vans to and from London, Dover,
Sandgate, Hythe, and every other part of the coast call daily.”
Folkestone, it would seem, was years ago well provided with
public houses, for the writer says: “Of inns and public houses in Folkestone,
it may be said, like churches in an old city, they are more numerical than
ornamental; without wishing to be invidious, we would name the North Foreland,
the George, the King`s Arms, the Folkestone Cutter, the Folkestone Lugger, and
the Fleur-de-lis, affording a variety of accommodations, which we have not
space to enumerate.” The North Foreland was in the neighbourhood of the Fish
Market, and it was here of an evening that the Town councillors and Jurats of
the day would enjoy a rubber of whist and discuss the town`s affairs. But “The
Foreland” has disappeared, and on its site the Fishermen`s Bethel has been
erected. The palatial Queen`s Hotel covers the ground on which once stood the
King`s Arms. As Folkestone grew I suppose it was considered infra dig to term a
house “The Lugger” in the fashionable part of the town. Then it was altered to
the East Kent Arms – the name the old, but renovated house in Sandgate Road is
now known by.
Folkestone Express
2-2-1901
Local News
The licensed victuallers of Folkestone have resolved to
close their establishments for four hours on Saturday during the time of Her
Majesty`s funeral.
Folkestone Express 24-8-1901
Annual Licensing Meeting
Wednesday, August 21st: Before J. Hoad, W.
Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, C.J. Pursey, and Lieut. Col. Hamilton.
The Chief Constable presented his annual report as follows:
I have the honour to report that there are at present within the Borough 140
houses licensed for the sale by retail of intoxicating drink. The population of
the Borough according to the recent Census is 30,694, which gives an average of
one licence to every 219 persons. Four of the licence holders have been
convicted during the past year for offences under the Licensing Acts, but in no
case was the conviction ordered to be endorsed on the licence. Each of the
convicted licensees has since transferred his licence and left the house. In
the preceding year only one licence holder was convicted. Eighteen of the
licences have been transferred during the year, against 28 in the previous
year. There are two places licensed for public billiard playing, and 12
licences are granted for public music and dancing. 116 persons (86 males and 30
females) have been proceeded against for drunkenness; 109 were convicted and
seven discharged. Only 54 were residents of the Borough. In the preceding year
115 persons were proceeded against and 107 of them convicted. Five persons have
also been convicted for giving false names when found on licensed premises
during prohibited hours. I offer no objection to the renewal of any of the
present licences, the holders generally appearing desirous of conducting their
houses in accordance with the law. I have received notices from four persons of
their intention to apply for new licences.
The Chairman said the report was very satisfactory. He asked
“Do you consider any new licences are required or not?”
Supt. Reeve: My own opinion is that there are already too
many licences in the town for the necessary requirements of the Borough.
The existing licences were renewed, with the exception of
that of the Ship Inn.
Folkestone Express
16-8-1902
Local News
The Licensing Bill has now passed both Houses of Parliament,
and awaits the Royal Assent, and Section 14 of the Act comes into force at
once. This section provides that there shall be no General Annual Licensing
Meeting this Autumn, and that in every district where the meeting would but for
the new Act have been held in the present month or in September, every
Justices` licence in force on Oct. 10th, 1902, shall, on production
to the Clerk to the Licensing Justices, and on payment of half the fees which
would have been payable if the licence had been renewed, remain in force until
April 5th, 1903, unless previously forfeited, or unless the licence or the
premises become disqualified. In future the General Annual Licensing Meetings
will be held within the first 14 days of February in each year.
Folkestone Chronicle
7-2-1903
Licensing Sessions
At Folkestone, the first Licensing Session under the new Act
was held on Wednesday, and was prolific in surprises. The Court was packed to
overflowing, quite a hundred would-be listeners being turned away for want of
room. In the back of the Court publicans and leading temperance people jostled
together. On the Bench Mr. W. Wighwick occupied the chair, and was supported by
Mr. J. Pledge, Lieut. Col. Westropp, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, Messrs. G.I.
Swoffer, E.T. Ward, W.G. Herbert, and C.J. Pursey. Among the legal profession
were Mr. T. Matthew, barrister (son of Mr. Justice Matthew), instructed by Mr.
J. Minter and Mr. G. Haines; Mr. Clinch, solicitor, Gravesend; Mr. Rutley
Mowll, Dover; Mr. Montague Bradley, Dover; Mr. Mercer, Canterbury, etc.
The Chief Constable informed the Court that there were
within the Borough 140 places for the sale of intoxicating drink, viz. – 88
full licences, 11 beer “on”, 6 beer “off”, 4 wine “off”, 3 wine “on”, 28
grocers and others to sell spirits, &c., off the premises. Since the last
Annual Licensing Meeting on the 21st of August, 1901, 3 of the
licences had been transferred. The majority of the houses had been
well-conducted. Seven of the licence holders had been convicted since August 21st,
1901, and a few others had been cautioned for slight irregularities in the conduct
of their businesses. Two of the licensed houses to which full licences had been
granted were simply carried on as beerhouses, the owners not having in force a
certificate from the Inland Revenue authorities authorising the sale of
spirits. For drunkenness 100 persons (78 males and 22 females) were proceeded
against during the period; 90 were convicted and ten discharged. He had
received notice that three applications for new licences would be made at these
Sessions.
The old licensees were duly called, and told to be quick
with their 8s. 6d. or 13s. 6d., as the case might be, while those whose
renewals were opposed were curtly informed that their applications stood
adjourned.
The renewal of the licences which stood adjourned were,
according to the Chief Constable`s list, classified under three headings. Under
the word “Opposed” were: The Hope, Mr. Smith; The Tramway, Mr. Skinner; The
Granville; Blue Anchor, Mr. G. Whiting; Marquis Of Lorne, Mr. Heritage; The
Star; The Providence, Mr. East; Bricklayers Arms, Mr. Joe Whiting; Victoria,
South Street.
Under the section “To Attend” (it was understood to be
warned for various petty irregularities, and to observe certain conditions)
were: The Imperial, Mr. J. Hills; Mechanics Arms, Mr. J. Lawrence; London and
Paris Hotel, Mr. G. Gray; Lifeboat, Mrs. Setterfield; Eagle Tavern, Mr. Taylor;
Swan, Dover Road, Mr. Brett; East Cliff Tavern; Packet Boat, Mr. Newman; The
Castle, Mr. A. Pollard; Tontine Street Brewery Tap, Mr. Thomason.
For production of plans, etc., as to entrances and exits:
The Wheatsheaf, Mr. Hall; Queen`s Head, Mr. Walter Tame; Perseverance; Cinque
Ports, Mr. Dorrell; Duke of Edinburgh; Prince of Wales, Mr. Weaver; Royal Oak,
Mr. Collyer; Chequers; Duke of Wellington, Mr. Ralph.
Before the Court adjourned, Mr. Clinch, on behalf of the
legal gentlemen present, asked the Bench to make a note of the great
inconvenience some of them had been put to through not receiving any notice
that the contested cases would stand adjourned.
The Chairman: I understand that you are not making any
application?
Mr. Clinch: Oh, no, sir.
Mr. Bradley (Magistrates` Clerk): You will have to fight
that out with Mr. Minter.
Mr. Minter (laughing): That is quite right.
The Chairman: The Sessions will stand adjourned until
Wednesday, the 4th of March.
Folkestone Express
7-2-1903
Editorial
The public were prepared for some special pronouncement from
the Folkestone Licensing Committee on Wednesday, but certainly not for what
actually did happen. There had been a deputation of clergymen, ministers and
others waiting on the Magistrates a few days previously, and they presented a
petition in which it was urged “that the number of houses licensed for the sale
of intoxicating drinks in the Borough is out of proportion to the needs of the
population, or the requirements of the locality. There are twenty four fully
licensed houses and two beer houses within five minutes` walk between the
junction of Tontine and High Streets and the end of Radnor Street”. The
deputation further expressed a hope that the Licensing Committee would not
sanction new licences on the condition of licences in the congested districts
being surrendered, and assured the Bench that any action in the way of
reduction of the number of licensed houses would have the warmest approval of
the petitioners. No notices of objection had been served upon publicans, but no
less than twenty eight applications were postponed for consideration at the
adjourned licensing day, and in several of the cases the applicants were
informed that the surrender would be opposed, while others were ordered to
submit plans within seven days – surely a most unnecessary request! A house to
house visit would have been much more enlightening. What we wish to impress
upon the Licensing Justices is the danger there will be, if they refuse any of
the licences on the ground that they are not required, of immense law costs
being incurred. We should not mind at all if these gentlemen who are so anxious
to reduce the number of licences would undertake to defray the costs of the
Magistrates in the appeals, and not let them fall upon the rates. For we may
rest assured that if any licence in the borough is refused, the decision will
be appealed against, and there is very little doubt that the decision of the
local Magistrates would be reversed. Exactly the same thing occurred at Hythe
last year. The new Licensing Act makes no change in the law in this respect. We
do not believe that the reduction in the number of licences will diminish the
quantity of liquor consumed. It might just as well be argued that a diminution
in the number of butcher`s shops would reduce the consumption of beef. The only
result would be that the remaining houses would more trade, and the consumer
would suffer from the lack of competition, which in every other trade is held
to be healthy. There are many licensed houses which are not remunerative, and
this ought to be a balm to the teetotal party. It shows that the existence of
the house does not increase drinking. Would out teetotal friends like to see
great gaudy “gin palaces” take the place of the quiet little inns, which are
regarded by hundreds of working men as club houses, where they can meet, chat
over the events of the day over their pipes, and go away at a proper hour to
their homes? We should deplore such a change, as it would introduce a new
element of danger and certainly conduce to heavy drinking. The old-fashioned
smoking room is not the place where beer and spirits are consumed wholesale. It
is the new-fangled lounge where the “liquor gobbling” goes on, just as it does
in the “quick lunch” bars in America, where food is hastily swallowed and the
digestion ruined. We do not think the Licensing Justices will, on mature
consideration, make any changes in Folkestone, where the houses are all well
conducted as is proved by the Chief Constable`s report. The date of the
adjourned licensing session will probably be altered. The Act says distinctly
that is should be held within one month of the date of the general annual
licensing meeting, and it is open to question whether the 4th of
March is within one month of the 4th of February. It seems to us to
be just outwith the month.
Wednesday, February 4th: Before W. Wightwick
Esq., Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, Lieut. Col. Westropp, E.T. Ward, C.J. Pursey, J.
Pledge, and W.G. Herbert Esqs.
Annual Licensing Session
The granting of old licences was proceeded with, and several
were ordered to stand over until the adjourned meeting.
These included the Swan, Dover Road; the Granville Inn,
Dover Street; the Castle Inn, Foord; the Victoria Inn, South Street; the
Tramway Tavern, Radnor Street; the Eagle Tavern, Guildhall Street; the Star,
Radnor Street; the Imperial Brewery Tap, Tontine Street; the Bricklayers Arms,
Fenchurch Street; the Blue Anchor; the Perseverance, the Duke Of Edinburgh; the
Lifeboat Inn; the Prince Of Wales; the Cinque Ports; the London and Paris
Hotel; the Imperial Hotel; the East Cliff Tavern; the Packet Boat; the
Mechanics Arms; the Chequers; the Hope; the Providence; the Marquis Of Lorne;
the Royal Oak; the Queen`s Head; and the Wheatsheaf.
In several cases the applicants were requested to send in
plans of their premises to the Clerk to the Justices within seven days.
The Magistrates` Clerk asked if there were any new
applications, and there was no response.
Folkestone Herald
7-2-1903
Annual Licensing Sessions
The Brewster Sessions for the Borough of Folkestone were
held at the Town Hall on Wednesday morning, the Licensing Justices being
Messrs. W. Wightwick, E.T. Ward, C.J. Pursey, J. Pledge, W.G. Herbert, and G.I.
Swoffer, and Lieut. Colonels Westropp and Hamilton.
Special interest was centred in the proceedings, the
expectation in the probable reduction in the number of licensed houses having
become general. Long before eleven o`clock, the hour appointed, constables were
stationed at the doors of the Town hall, and there the great majority of
licence holders were kept waiting. Throughout the whole of the sitting there
was a considerable amount of excitement, which grew more intense as the
Chairman of the Justices gave notice of opposition to licence holders.
Several members of the local Temperance movement, who had
waited on the Justices a week since, and had presented a petition, which
appeared in the last issue of the Herald, were in Court, including the Rev.
J.C. Carlile, Mr. J. Lynn, Mrs. Lynn, Mr. Davidson and Mrs. Stuart. At the
solicitors` table were Messrs. Rutley H. Mowll (Dover), A. Montague Bradley
(Dover), R.M. Mercer (Canterbury) J. Minter (Folkestone), and W. Clinch
(representing Licensed Victuallers` Association), and Mr. G.W. Haines
(Folkestone).
The Chief Constable submitted his annual report.
The work of dealing with the licences was then commenced.
Prior to the sitting the following list had been drawn up of the licensed
houses in whose cases licences were withheld. Licences to be opposed: Hope Inn,
Tramway Inn, Granville Arms, Blue Anchor, Marquis Of Lorne, Star Inn,
Providence Inn, Victoria Inn, and Bricklayers Arms. Renewals deferred for
further consideration: Imperial Hotel, Mechanics Arms, London And Paris Hotel,
Lifeboat Inn, Eagle Tavern, Brewery Tap, Swan Inn, East Cliff Tavern, Packet
Boat Inn, and Castle Inn. Plans of the following premises were also ordered to
be deposited with the Clerk of the Justices within seven days, the renewal of
the licences being deferred: Wheatsheaf
Inn, Queen`s Head, Perseverance, Cinque Ports, Duke Of Edinburgh, Prince Of
Wales, Royal Oak, and Chequers.
The Chief Constable objected to the dancing licence of Mr.
Warner, landlord of the Clarence Hotel, being renewed. No objections were given
by the landlord, and the Justices refused the extra licence.
Mr. Clinch asked permission to make an observation. His
friends, Mr. Mowll and Mr. Bradley, were there today, having come a great
distance, for the purpose of opposing applications for new licences which had
been duly advertised, and of which notice was given. They were there
representing different interests. The speaker represented individuals and the
members of the Licensed Victuallers` Association. All he desired to point out
was – and the Bench could not help it – that it was a great hardship to these
applicants that they should be called upon to come before the Justices on a
second occasion through no fault of their own. It would be impertinent of him
to enquire what was going on in the Bench, but his clients had to bring their
advocates from long distances for some hitch of which they were not aware. He
respectfully asked the committee to bear in mind the matter on the next
occasion.
Mr. Wightwick: There is no application before me at the
present moment.
No applications were heard, the Chairman announcing that the
Adjourned Sessions would be held on the 4th March.
Southeastern Gazette
10-2-1903
Local News
The Annual Licensing Sessions for this Borough were held on
Wednesday. Out of the 140 applicants for renewal, nine were informed that they
would be opposed at the Adjourned Sessions, eleven cases were adjourned for
further consideration, and eight applicants were required to deposit plans of
their premises with the Clerk to the Justices within the next seven days.
Folkestone Programme
8-2-1904
Notes
The annual meeting of the Borough Licensing Justices will
take place on Wednesday at the Town hall. At the last annual meeting, it will
be remembered, the Licensing Justices expressed an opinion that in the lower
part of the town there were already existing a very large number of licensed
houses, not compatible with the population.
The justices on that occasion advised those concerned to
discuss the matter amongst themselves with a view to the voluntary closing of
some of their premises. Such an arrangement would, of course, be far better
than the justices should exercise their powers and refuse to grant the renewal
of licences. It will be interesting to note on Wednesday what “the trade” has
done in this matter in the course of the past twelve months. All are agreed
that there is an excess of public houses and beer-shops in the vicinity of the
harbour – in some of which the licensee finds it impossible to obtain adequate livelihood.
Apart from the temperance party, a deputation of residents
conferred with the justices the other day, and a petition has also been
presented, signed by the whole of the clergy and ministers in the borough, as
well as by local traders and influential residents. It is to be hoped that on
Wednesday such arrangements will be announced as will give satisfaction to all
parties concerned.
Folkestone Chronicle
13-2-1904
Licensing Sessions
Wednesday, February 10th: Before Mr. W.
Wightwick, Alderman Herbert, Lieut. Cols. Fynmore, Westropp, and Hamilton,
Messrs. C.J. Pursey and E.T. Ward.
The Chief Constable (Mr. H. Reeve) read his annual report,
which contained interesting figures with regard to drunkenness, etc. No person
in Folkestone had yet been convicted a sufficient number of times to be placed
on the “black list”. The Chief Constable objected to the renewal of the licence
of the Swan Inn, Dover Road, and asked that the consideration of this licence
might be deferred until the adjourned sessions.
The Chairman then read the Justices` Report, which stated
that the number of licensed houses in Folkestone, and especially around the
harbour, was out of all proportion to the population. The number of licences
had not been reduced, owing to the fact that a Bill amending the Licensing Laws
was shortly to be introduced in Parliament. Certain public houses – the
Imperial Brewery Tap, the Hope, the East Cliff Tavern, the Victoria, the
Lifeboat Inn, the Duke Of Edinburgh, and the Channel Inn had been inspected by
the Justices, and recommendations with regard to their sanitary improvement and
closing of back entries were made.
Mr. John Minter said that water had been laid on at the
Channel Inn since the report on the bad state of the sanitary arrangements. Mr.
Minter also suggested with regard to the Imperial Brewery Tap that a public bar
should be made with an entrance from Mill Bay.
The Bench decided, however, that the orders made in the
report should be adhered to.
Licences were then granted to the lessees of public houses
and licensed premises.
Mr. Minter applied for full licences for Mr. W.T. Tame and
Mr. Gregory, but no new facts were forthcoming and the Bench declined to grant
them, stating that they would grant no new licences this year.
Folkestone Chronicle
13-2-1904
Licensing Sessions
Wednesday, February 10th: Before Mr. W.
Wightwick, Alderman Herbert, Lieut. Cols. Fynmore, Westropp, and Hamilton,
Messrs. C.J. Pursey and E.T. Ward.
The Chief Constable (Mr. H. Reeve) read his annual report,
which contained interesting figures with regard to drunkenness, etc. No person
in Folkestone had yet been convicted a sufficient number of times to be placed
on the “black list”. The Chief Constable objected to the renewal of the licence
of the Swan Inn, Dover Road, and asked that the consideration of this licence
might be deferred until the adjourned sessions.
The Chairman then read the Justices` Report, which stated
that the number of licensed houses in Folkestone, and especially around the
harbour, was out of all proportion to the population. The number of licences
had not been reduced, owing to the fact that a Bill amending the Licensing Laws
was shortly to be introduced in Parliament. Certain public houses – the
Imperial Brewery Tap, the Hope, the East Cliff Tavern, the Victoria, the
Lifeboat Inn, the Duke Of Edinburgh, and the Channel Inn had been inspected by
the Justices, and recommendations with regard to their sanitary improvement and
closing of back entries were made.
Mr. John Minter said that water had been laid on at the
Channel Inn since the report on the bad state of the sanitary arrangements. Mr.
Minter also suggested with regard to the Imperial Brewery Tap that a public bar
should be made with an entrance from Mill Bay.
The Bench decided, however, that the orders made in the
report should be adhered to.
Licences were then granted to the lessees of public houses
and licensed premises.
Mr. Minter applied for full licences for Mr. W.T. Tame and
Mr. Gregory, but no new facts were forthcoming and the Bench declined to grant
them, stating that they would grant no new licences this year.
Folkestone Herald
13-2-1904
Editorial
At the Folkestone Licensing Sessions, on Wednesday last, an
important pronouncement upon the licensing question was made from the Bench. It
will be remembered that a year ago it was intimated by the Justices that unless
the owners of public houses submitted a scheme for the voluntary surrender of a
number of licences in the borough, the Magistrates would themselves deal with
the matter. On Wednesday, however, it was stated by Mr. Wightwick, on behalf of
himself and his colleagues, that in view of the announcement in the King`s
Speech that the Government intended to introduce in the House of Commons,
during the present Session, a bill to amend the Licensing Laws, the Bench were
of opinion that they ought not, at the present time, to exercise the powers
which they possessed. At the Hythe Brewster Sessions, on Tuesday, it was stated
that the Justices had arrived at a similar decision. We believe that this
attitude will commend itself to all except those holding extreme views on this
thorny subject. It having been officially intimated in Parliament that the
Government propose dealing with this question, it seems only right and proper
that, for the present, at any rate, the Magistrates should stay their hand. The
promised legislation may alter the complexion of the matter to a very considerable
extent and may render easy of solution a problem which, in the present state of
the law, presents many difficulties.
Folkestone Herald
14-1-1905
Editorial
Touching the temperance question, the new Licensing Act,
concerning which there has been such a display of feeling, came into force, as
readers have already been reminded, with the opening of the New Year. In view
of the situation set up by this much-maligned measure, the Folkestone Brewster
Sessions, which will be held on February 8th, will have a special
interest. It can hardly be denied that in certain portions of the borough
public houses are numerically far in excess of the requirements of the
community, and all schools of thought will be expectant as to the actual
operation of the Act and the results of its working. There are those who in all
sincerity express doubt as to any substantial benefit in the shape of a
lessening of the amount of excessive drinking accruing, but it can scarcely be
seriously argued that it is for the good of the populace that liquor shops
should abound so plentifully as is the case in some quarters of the town. Now,
too, that provision has been made for compensation in respect to houses which
may be ordered to close their bars the objections which formerly obtained
against the reduction of the licensed premises on the ground that such
reduction could not be brought about without a policy of spoliation distasteful
to the British sense of justice and fair play are removed. We are quite aware
that to this principle of compensation for licences which are withheld because
it is believed there is no real need for them there is strong antagonism on the
part of some total abstainers, and in some quarters there is a disposition to re-discuss the measure. But
the Act is an accomplished fact, and we may expect to see it administered in
the same manner as the other laws of the country are carried into effect. Seeing
that the money for the purposes of compensation is to come out of the pockets
of the licensed victuallers themselves, it is difficult to understand the
position of temperance advocates who are denouncing the Act as a measure
designed for the benefit of the trade. But Sir Edward Sassoon, in his powerful
letter to Sir Thomas Barlow, which was reprinted in our last issue, has so
forcibly dealt with this point that we may well be content to let the matter
rest for the present. We may, however, be permitted to make this suggestion
regarding that communication. As stated last week, that letter is to be widely
circulated in two other constituencies. If not now, then at a later date, when
an election is more imminent, it might be as well to distribute broadcast throughout
the Parliamentary borough of Hythe a leaflet bearing the text of Sir Edward
Sassoon`s letter. So trenchantly, yet so tersely, does it deal with the
question at issue that it could not fail to enlighten the public mind on the
subject, and to materially help in stemming the torrent of misrepresentation
and misunderstanding whereby political teetotallers seek to bias the electors
against the Act.
Folkestone Daily News
25-1-1905
Local News
The Brewster Sessions for the renewal of licences take place
on February 8th, and we are in a position to state that the
authorities thoroughly recognise the general respectability of those engaged in
the Folkestone licensing trade, and the creditable way in which the houses have
been conducted during the past year.
In this conclusion they are strengthened by the official
reports which will be in the hands of the public very shortly. Consequently no
official action will be taken by either the Watch Committee or any other
constituted authority.
The little clamour that is always being raised by fanatics
as to the number of public houses in certain parts of Old Folkestone counts for
nothing, and those who are unbiased, even teetotallers themselves, know full
well that if half these houses were closed just as much drink would be sold, as
none of those houses do anything like a crowded trade, many of them being
practically like working men`s clubs, where they are in the habit of spending
the evening more for social intercourse than drink. Of course such people as
the Recorder are not conversant with these circumstances, and it cannot be
expected that they could be.
Whether the local fanatics who have been playing the amateur
detective game as vigilance committee intend to have a flutter or not, we
neither know nor care, having every confidence in the fair judgement of the
Licensing Bench, and probably the trade will be legally represented, so that
these people who in their enthusiasm are careless of interfering with other
people`s property, will not be allowed roving commissions to make exaggerated
hearsay and extravagant statements which cannot be substantiated.
But if they decide to oppose anybody`s renewal it should be
done in a legal manner, by sworn evidence, so that they might be cross-examined
and fair justice meted out.
Southeastern Gazette
14-2-1905
The annual Licensing Sessions for the borough of Folkestone
were held on Wednesday, when the Magistrates decided to hold over the renewal
of the licenses of six houses until the Adjourned Sessions. The Chief
Constable, in his annual report, stated that there was one licensed house to
every 113 inhabitants. He referred especially to the congested areas in the
neighbourhood of Tontine Street, Dover Street, and the Harbour.
Folkestone
Herald 9-1-1909
Local News
At the East Kent Quarter Sessions at Canterbury on
Tuesday, Lord Harris, referring to the amount to be paid under the Compensation
Act, said it would be within the recollection of the Court that last year an
appeal was made to them to reduce the charge, but at that time the Committee
could not see their way to make any reduction having regard to the number of
cases being presented to them, and the class of case, but it was hoped that as
time went on the number recommended to be reduced would naturally fall off, and
automatically a reduction in the charge would take place. That, however, had
not been their experience that year, partly owing to one very expensive house
at Folkestone, which the Justices and the Licensing Committee were very
strongly of opinion ought to go, the particular objection to it being based upon
the building itself rather than upon the condition of the trade, and after
sending it back again it was sent up again, and the Committee felt bound to go
on with it. That had been a very heavy charge upon the revenue of the Licensing
Committee this year. He thought it would be premature, and even hazardous,
rather, to make any reduction in the charge at present. At the same time,
having regard to the fall in trade, one naturally felt sympathy with the trade
that had to provide that charge. While he hoped sincerely that it might be
possible some time in the future, and as soon as possible, to make some
reduction, yet he did feel it would be hazardous at present to do so, and they
felt bound to make the charge the same.
Lieut. Colonel Dickenson seconded, and this was agreed
to.
Folkestone
Express 6-2-1909
Annual Licensing Sessions
Wednesday, February 3rd: Before Mr. E.T.
Ward, Major Leggett, Lieut. Col. Fynmore, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, Messrs. J.
Stainer, W.C. Carpenter, W.G. Herbert, C. Jenner, R.J. Linton, and G. Boyd.
The Chief Constable (Mr. H. Reeve) read his annual
report as follows:- Gentlemen, I have the honour to report that there are at
present within your jurisdiction 125 premises licensed for the sail by retail
of intoxicating liquors, viz.:- Full licences 76; beer “on” 7; beer “off” 6;
beer and spirit dealers 15; grocers, etc. 11; chemists 7; confectioners 3,
total 125. This gives an average according to the Census of 1901 of one licence
to every 245 persons, or one “on” licence to every 369 persons.
At the adjourned licensing meeting last year three
licences (two full and one beer) were referred to the Compensation Committee on
the ground of redundancy, and refused renewal by that Committee on the 9th
July last.
Two of the houses, the Railway Inn, Beach Street, and
the Bricklayers Arms, Fenchurch Street were closed after the payment of
compensation on 28th September last.
The amount of compensation in the case of the other
licence refused, viz., The Eagle, High Street, has not yet been settled. A
provisional renewal of the licence will, therefore, be necessary, although the
house has been closed for the sale of intoxicating drink since October last,
the Excise licence, which expired on the 10th of that month, not
having been renewed.
There are two houses licensed by the Inland Revenue
Authorities for the sale of beer, wines and spirits, in certain quantities, off
the premises, under the provisions of the Excise Acts, for which no
Magistrates` certificate is required.
Since the last annual licensing meeting twelve of the
licences have been transferred; one licence was transferred twice.
Three occasional licences were granted for the sale of
drink on premises not ordinarily licensed for such sale, and 40 extensions of
the usual time of closing have been granted to licence holders when balls,
dinners, etc., were being held on their premises.
During the year ended 31st December last 107
persons (86 males and 21 females) were proceeded against for drunkenness; 101
were convicted and six discharged. This is a decrease of 18 persons as compared
with the preceding year. Of those proceeded against, 29 were residents, 17
non-residents, 48 of no fixed abode, and 13 were soldiers.
Two licence holders were proceeded against and
convicted during the year, viz.:- Permitting drunkenness – fined 40s. and costs
11s.; selling beer to person when drunk – fined 20s. and costs 11s.
In the former case the house has since been closed
under the provisions of the Compensation Act.
Fourteen clubs where intoxicating liquor is sold are
registered in accordance with the Act of 1902.
There are sixteen places licensed for music and dancing
and two for public billiard playing.
I have no objection to offer to the renewal of the
present licences on the ground of misconduct, the houses generally being
conducted in a satisfactory manner.
I have received notice of four applications to be made
at these sessions for new licences, viz.:- one full licence, two beer “off”,
and one billiard licence.
I am, Gentlemen, your obedient servant, H. Reeves,
Chief Constable.
Folkestone
Daily News 7-4-1909
Wednesday, April 7th: Before Messrs. Ward,
Fynmore, Herbert and Linton.
An application was made by Messrs. Leney and Co. for
permission to make certain structural alterations to their public houses in the
town to comply with the new Act relating to the serving of children. The
representative gave a brief outline of the proposed alterations, but the Bench
declined to accede to the application.
Folkestone
Express 10-4-1909
Wednesday, April 7th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward,
Lieut. Col. Fynmore, and Messrs. W.G. Herbert and R.J. Linton.
An application was made on behalf of Messrs. Leney for
sanction of structural alterations in certain of their public houses in order
to comply with the Children`s Act. They desired to provide compartments where
children could be supplied with beer in bottles where liquor was not consumed.
The Magistrates decided that it was too early to apply,
and refused the application.
Folkestone
Herald 10-4-1909
Wednesday, April 7th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward,
Lieut. Colonel R.J. Fynmore, Messrs. W.G. Herbert and R.J. Linton.
An application was made on behalf of Mr. Leney, by Mr.
Bradley, of Dover, for permission for alterations at seven public houses to
comply with the new Children`s Act, so that they could provide places where
children could be served with bottles. Plans were produced showing the proposed
alterations. The application was refused.
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