PLANS for a party at a beach restaurant have been scotched after police voiced fears the event could spiral out of control.
The owner of Barefoot on the Beach, Colwell Bay, hoped to provide four days of entertainment over August bank holiday weekend to celebrate the restaurant's first birthday, including a canape evening and family barbecues.
But plans for a party on Friday, August 24, until 2am, with top DJ and Bestival curator Rob da Bank possibly performing, prompted concerns from police.
The Isle of Wight Council's licensing committee yesterday (Thursday) refused permission for the event, after police objected because there were no measures in place to stop people from gathering on the public beach next to the restaurant for a party.
Further concerns were raised about the noise disturbance to nearby residents.
Mr Jones said he had no intention of holding a beach party and was instead planning a small, sophisticated soiree for around 85 invited guests, including past and present high sheriffs.
Mr Jones said he was surprised his plans had caused 'such a commotion' and would not submit a fresh application, but would hold his canape party as planned within the restaurant's usual opening hours.
For full story see the Isle of Wight County Press on Friday, August 3.
Reporter: emilyp@iwcpmail.co.uk