DRINKERS in Bolton's pubs and clubs are hoping to benefit from changes to licensing laws which could in theory lead to 24-hour opening by next summer.

The legislation announced in the Queen's Speech will give more flexibility, but also responsibility, to landlords who will be able to apply to Bolton Council for a licence in which they will specify what hours of business they will operate and explain any events they would plan to hold such as karaoke sessions or quiz nights.

Some town centre pubs are eagerly awaiting the change. Ronnie Clucas, manager of Yate's Wine Lodge on Bradshawgate, already takes advantage of being able to open until 1am.

He said: "The new changes are definitely something we will be looking into."

But John Jewitt, owner of Ye Olde Man and Scythe on Churchgate, does not think many pubs will take advantage. He said: "There is a lot of hype surrounding this and customers think 24 hour opening will become standard. The whole thing does need sorting out but I don't think customers will see much change - it will affect licensees more."

Licensing officers at Bolton Council say they welcome the changes. Andrew Fisher, group manager for licensing for Bolton Council said: "We are aware of the changes and broadly welcome them.

"We look forward to working with members of the licensed trade and want to ensure that local residents gain the maximum benefit from the changes. But we are keen to ensure that we don't create extra problems and will need to study the proposals in more depth."

Real ale and pub enthusiasts have also welcomed the plans. Mike Benner, head of campaigns and communications for CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) said: "After years of campaigning we can finally look forward to longer opening hours which will boost tourism and help stamp out binge drinking."

There will now just be two licences - one for the premises and one for the landlord or landlady themselves.