Licensing watchdog investigates Blue Rock (From Western Telegraph)

Licensing watchdog investigates Blue Rock

10:13am Wednesday 16th August 2006 in

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Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed that it is investigating alleged breaches of licensing laws at the Celtic Blue Rock Festival.

However, organisers of the festival maintain they were in constant communication with licensing officers and monitored the higher than expected numbers arriving at the site.

Celtic Blue Rock committee secretary Chris Tomos said: "We were in constant contact with the council as people were arriving. We worked with them and were quite transparent with what was happening so they were aware of the high numbers of people arriving. I think we can learn from the fact that there is a demand for this kind of event. The issues have been documented and will be looked at."

Gareth Watts, pollution control and licensing manager with the county council, said: "This event is now in its third year and we have tried to work closely with the event organisers in that time to ensure that the event runs safely.

"Notwithstanding our investigation into possible breaches of licence conditions, there is no reason why that co-operation cannot continue in advance of any planned event next year."

Peter Warrender from Haverfordwest, who went to the festival, said: "It is unbelievable that the festival is being investigated. The festival is well organised and all who attended were well behaved and responsible.

"I went this year and last and witnessed no anti-social behaviour, unlike most weekends in Haverfordwest. Well done to all the organisers and volunteers, plus all the fantastic bands playing for free."

The community festival took place on August 5th/6th. Entry was free and more than 60 bands were performing.