Chairs for the weary may fall foul of law (From Western Telegraph)

Chairs for the weary may fall foul of law

A TENBY shopkeeper who has provided a sitting-out place for weary pedestrians could fall foul of the law.

Six garden chairs outside The Dainty in Tudor Square has put Nigel Chapple in breach of Pembrokeshire County Council rulings.

Nearby, cafes, pubs and restaurants are joining in the spirit of 'cafe culture', encouraged by Tenby's summer traffic ban, and putting tables and chairs outside their premises. They can set out their street furniture to enhance their businesses for the price of a £25 licence fee.

But no other 'obstructions' are allowed on town centre pavements - including postcard stands, goods for sale ... and comfy chairs!

"I don't even sell garden chairs in my shop, and just put them out as a goodwill gesture to the public who might need a nice sit down, as there is a distinct lack of public seating in Tenby," said Nigel. "But because I am not serving food, I can't apply for the licence and so have been told I am breaking the law."

Each chair carries the kindly message: 'Compliments of The Dainty. Rest your weary legs on these chairs free of charge'.

Added Nigel: "There's no doubt that the chairs are well used, as the notices are already wearing out!

"In my opinion, the county council is employing double standards, when paying a £25 licence charges makes the difference between illegal obstruction and paid-for obstruction."

Pictured: Tenby shopkeeper Nigel Chapple with one of his chairs, while enjoying a welcome sit down are Peter and Edmund Hartzell, of Saundersfoot, and visitor Linda Lashbrook from Northampton, with Barney the dog. PICTURE: Western Telegraph (WTNO1188HO3).