Noisy Black Country pub shut down for two days after police repeatedly called

A 48-hour closure notice was issued to the Holly Bush pub in Cradley Heath after concerns over loud noise and anti-social behaviour were ignored on Saturday, West Midlands Police said.

The party at the pub was one of more than 100 that the force shut down across the region over the weekend as officers responded to reports of illegal gatherings.

Residents in Cradley Heath said police attended the Holly Bush at least five times on Saturday and a drone was used to monitor the party which lasted for around eight hours before the music stopped at around 8pm.

A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described the noise as "exceptionally loud," adding: "We needed to have our windows shut because it was that loud, despite being how hot it was."

The licensee of the pub, on the junction of Newtown Lane and Bannister Street, said the party having to be held outside meant noise travelled further than usual.

Mr Francis, who did not provide his first name, said: "I would like to apologise.

"I didn't realise how far the sound would travel and how loud it was.

"We did a drum and bass thing. I haven't done anything outside for a year.

"It's been over a year since the last time we had recording music played at volume outside.

"Normally these events would be held inside but due to the current restrictions we weren't allowed to."

Elsewhere on Saturday a gathering of up to 600 people was dispersed in Brooklyn Avenue, Aston, and a party with around 60 people and a DJ was closed down in Ismere Road, Erdington.

West Midlands Police said officers also acted on intelligence to stop other gatherings forming, including in Sorrell Park, Erdington, where raves had previously been held.

Friday was also a busy night for the force, with a block party closed down in Elliot Street, Nechells, and a rave broken up in Garrison Lane, Bordesley Green.

Senior officers, including Chief Constable Dave Thompson, condemned party-goers for putting people's health at risk.

Chief Superintendent Claire Bell said: "We remain in a pandemic and reckless gatherings such as parties and unlicensed music events only increase the risk of spreading the virus.

"You could be putting the lives of your family and friends at risk.

"Such gatherings are not only illegal, they are a nuisance to others and a public health risk. We have resources in place to shut these events down.

"We have an operation in place and while we seek to engage and educate people to follow the guidelines, we will seek to prosecute if this is ignored."