A Hitchin bar owner who had his licence taken away following a landmark prosecution by the district council has lost his appeal.

Kenneth Campbell, who ran the Rocabessa bar in Churchgate, originally pleased guilty to three charges of staying open after his official licence hours, and was ordered to pay nearly £3,000 at a prosecution brought by North Herts District Council back in July.

He subsequently had his licence revoked by the council in September.

Mr Campbell, of Bradley’s Corner, appealed against the decision to remove his licence this week at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court.

However, after carefully considering all the evidence, and following a prolonged period of deliberation, the magistrates dismissed the appeal meaning Rocabessa will stay closed to the public – with Mr Campbell ordered to pay council costs in the new year.

Councillor Bernard Lovewell said: “Licencing conditions are in place to prevent crime and disorder and to promote public safety and prevent public nuisance.

“We’re happy with the outcome of the appeal and hope this sends a clear message to traders who do not comply with licensing conditions.”