A PUB'S appeal to extend its opening hours has been dismissed because of problems with anti-social behaviour.

The case brought by the Sovereign of the Seas, Queensway, Petts Wood, was rejected following evidence from residents.

The pub was also ordered to pay Bromley Council's legal costs of £832 at Bromley Magistrates' Court, on January 25.

The court backed the decision made by Bromley Council's licensing sub-committee last August.

Closing time will remain at 11pm from Sunday to Thursday and 11.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Licensing committee chairman Councillor Tony Owen said: "I am pleased the court found the evidence from residents so compelling.

"The new law gives us powers to protect residents and others from nuisance."

He added: "We will continue to carefully balance all the factors when deciding future licence applications."

Under the Licensing Act 2003, applications are checked against four criteria.

Applicants must make sure they prevent crime and disorder, ensure public safety, prevent public nuisance and protect children from harm.