VILLAGERS have objected to a deli's plan to sell alcohol until late at night.

Delicatessen Checketts in Ombersley has asked for a late-night alcohol licence and permission to play music until 11pm but several neighbours have said it should not be given as it would cause problems.

The owners of the deli want to sell alcohol inside and outside until 10.45pm Monday to Saturday and 5.45pm on a Sunday as well as play music until 11pm Monday to Saturday and 6pm on a Sunday.

Several neighbours said people leaving Checketts late at night would cause a public nuisance and the lack of parking could also cause problems as finding a space was already an issue and there is no street lighting in the village.

All of the objections said Checketts should only be allowed to sell alcohol until 6pm if permission was granted.

New owner Tim Hopkins defended the plan saying he had saved the previously struggling delicatessen from going out of business and wanted to be able to encourage more people to visit by offering wine alongside some of the local produce on sale.

"The aim of Checketts going forward is to make it a destination with all the parts of the business supporting each other. For example, the butchers are in constant competition with national supermarkets and by making Checketts a destination to eat and drink and enjoy the delicatessen.

"It is something that will allow people to come and enjoy locally produced wine and have a plate of cured meat. It means more people can visit the business and make sure it can continue to thrive."

One objection from a neighbour said Ombersley had been able to stay alive whilst retaining its character as a rural village and its popularity relied on it staying that way.

The plan has also led to an objection from a nearby church.

In a letter to the council, Robert Pearce, chairman of the Diocese of Worcester parsonages committee, said Ombersley was usually quiet in the evenings and allowing music to be played and alcohol to be served would disrupt the village.

“This disturbance would be noticed primarily by the residents of the adjoining residences, one of which is the rectory," it said. “The rectory, as well as being the place of residence of the local parish priest, also forms the centre of Christian ministry for this area and as such there can be a greater need for peace than is perhaps expected in another dwelling."

“It is accepted that for villages such as Ombersley to thrive, there needs to be a balance between commercial and residential property and between the noise and bustle of people going about their business, with peace and quiet that is desired in a home. Nevertheless, the provision of another place of hospitality in Ombersley should not be to the detriment of the existing community."

Wychavon District Council's licensing subcommittee meets from 2pm on Wednesday, August 5 to make a decision.