THE licence of a Thurrock pub has been suspended pending an investigation and review by Thurrock Council which is aimed at preventing 'crime and disorder'.

Functions, including a 'Pumpkin Patch event' and a fireworks display, have cancelled, though some groups that use its large function hall for events like exercise says they will continue – inviting participants to take their own refreshments.

The club's operators say: "We're temporarily closed, but we'll be back soon! If you have a booking between now and the end of November, then please message us via Facebook or email us on [email protected]

"Refunds for Pumpkin Patch and firework night will be honoured. However, wristbands must be provided

"We are working hard to get our doors back open and serve our much-loved customers.

"We will know more information in the coming weeks, so please keep an eye out for updates! Thank you for your understanding and continued support!"

Thurrock Council has issued a notice saying it is undertaking a summary review of the pub and its licence.

It says: "An application for review of the Crooked Billet licence has been made on the grounds of prevention of crime and disorder.

"Any interested party or responsible authority (as defined by the Licensing Act 2003) may make representations to the Licensing Authority no later than 1 November 2022. Any representations made to the Licensing Authority must be in writing.

"It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with this application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for this offence is unlimited."

Earlier this month the pub was included as a target by police investigating a drugs gang and was subject to an early morning raid. The pub issued a statement in the wake of that saying no-one had been arrested and nothing illegal found.