Pubs in East Lothian have been given some early festive cheers after licensing chiefs announced extra drinking hours over the holidays.
The council has said all hospitality venues will be able to stay open until 2am on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day this year with the late last orders also available on Hogmanay and New Year's Day.
Speaking at a virtual meeting of East Lothian Licensing Board, convenor Councillor Lachlan Bruce said the general extension would be for on-sales only and no drinking establishment would need to apply.
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He said: "Any application outwith these dates will be considered on an case by case basis and must be submitted by December 2."
East Lothian premises were given a general extension for two weeks over the festive period until it was scrapped four years ago at the request of the county’s licensing forum.
The forum argued that only a small number of premises took advantage of the extension out with the main holiday dates.
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