A Farnworth off-licence which lost its licence is to remain without it after an application to restore it was unsuccessful.

Farnworth Mini Market lost its licence at the start of this year after the discovery of illicit tobacco and other illegal items.

According to Bolton Council the owner, Bashir Khalil, is appealing the ruling at the magistrates' court but, last week, a potential owner looking to take over the off-licence on Higher Market Street appeared at the town hall.

This potential owner, David Nield, and his representative, Tony Clarke, told the committee of councillors Mr Nield had no involvement at the time of the discovery of illicit tobacco, cigarettes and e-cigarettes by the council.

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Mr Clarke said: "In his experience he has never needed to speak to licensing officers, police officers or Trading Standards.

"My client agrees Mr Khalil shall in no capacity be linked to the premises in any way, either directly or indirectly, and any relevant tenancy agreement is to be available on request to ensure compliance with the conditions."

Trading Standards said Mr Nield has a history of taking over the lease at premises which lose their licence then transferring the lease a matter of months later. He did so at The Beer Garden, St Helens Road, after it lost its licence in 2020 in a similar situation.

Andrew Bolan, the head of regulatory services, said there was a concern Mr Khalil could continue to control the business if the application was successful, a concern which was shared by licensing officers and police officers.

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Mr Bolan said: "Although there is no evidence to suggest Mr Nield was involved in the circumstances which led to the review proceedings, Trading Standards are apprehensive as to his intentions based on his association with premises subject to review proceedings previously, and [based on] the continued control of the business by Mr Khalil."

After consideration by councillors David Chadwick, Sean Fielding and Debbie Newall the application was unsuccessful.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.