NEW reforms making it easier to stage live music has been welcomed todayMON,OCT29 by a publican breathing new life into a North-East pub.

Andrew Charlesworth took over at The Bull’s Head in North Skelton, near Redcar, earlier this year is trying to promote live music at the once failing pub.

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills recently announced licensing reforms making it easier for pubs to stage live events.

Mr Charlesworth said: “This will make things easier for landlords like me who want to give their customers some entertainment and provide local bands with a place to gig."

The changes mean amplified music events in licensed premises no longer need a specific licence before 11pm as long as they have a maximum audience of 200. It’s among 3,000 regulations being revised to help businesses reduce costs.

Andrew, from South Bank, made the bold decision to take on the job in May, despite having no experience of running a pub and hooked up with Redcar and Cleveland’s Enterprise Team for help.