A CATALOGUE of complaints from neighbours about excessive noise, and allegations of underage drinking, jettisoned a March function room s bid for a 3am licence on Saturday for a 21st birthday party. A special meeting of Fenland Licensing Committee was cal

A CATALOGUE of complaints from neighbours about excessive noise, and allegations of underage drinking, jettisoned a March function room's bid for a 3am licence on Saturday for a 21st birthday party.

A special meeting of Fenland Licensing Committee was called on Wednesday after police lodged objections to the plans by the Windmill Rooms in Whitemoor Road for the late opening.

Lin Bagwell, the council's principal licensing officer, told councillors that since the beginning of summers late night opening for special events had resulted in complaints from neighbours.

She said the police had also recorded allegations of under age drinking and there had been a serious assault at the club and fights in the car park.

Ms Bagwell said under the terms of the new Temporary Event Notices, the applicants and police were encouraged to "negotiate away" objections, but she was unaware of any talks between the two parties.

The committee's decision means tomorrow's party must finish by 1am.

Councillor Michael Humphrey, who chaired the hearing, said: "Having carefully considered the evidence put towards us, and having due regard by the council's objectives, we have decided not to grant the notice.

"We are aware this will not withhold the event taking place."

Rashid Khan, owner of the Windmill Rooms, said of previous events: "A lot of the trouble stemmed from younger parties and we do not do them any more."

Mr Ali also said that suggestions made by the police about supplying accredited door staff, using sound proofing and obtaining legitimate proof of clients' booking, are being carried out.

The licensing committee, which also included Councillor Cyril Bellamy and Councillor Ralph Butcher, took 40 minutes to evaluate the evidence before backing police objections.