LICENSING chiefs agreed not to amend their policy after bosses of two Irvine pubs made inquires about extending hours for the upcoming Royal Wedding.

The license holder of Irvine’s The Carrick and The Turf, as well as Drouthy Neebors in Largs, asked the North Ayrshire board about extending hours following comments made by the Home Secretary.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd had said: “The royal wedding will be a time of national celebration, and we want everyone to be able to make the most of such an historic occasion.

“I hope that this relaxation of the licensing hours will allow people to extend their festivities.”

However the board was not satisfied that there needed to be any change to its policy, but individual pubs wishing to stay open any longer will be welcome to apply to the board individually.

Linda Robinson of Greene King plc, who own The Carrick and the Turf had asked the Board: “With regards to the upcoming nuptials of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle on May 19, the government is looking to allow bars and other licensed premises to delay calling time on May 18 and 19 to allow the nation to better celebrate the Royal Wedding.

“So that we may plan ahead to join in said celebrations, can you advise what your extension policy will be for this event of national significance?”

A council spokesperson said: “The Board had representations from Police Scotland and was not satisfied that there needed to be any change in the Board’s policy on Licensed Hours.

“The premises will continue to have their licensed hours, and if they apply for a temporary extension for the wedding then their requests will be referred to the Board.”