Drag queen bingo and bagpipes spark south London pub row

Detailed summary

Council is set to decide whether new restrictions should be imposed following complaints of excessive noise

A row over outdoor drag queen bingo has sparked a pub licensing battle in south London.

Sutton Council is set to decide whether new restrictions should be imposed on The Prince of Wales, thought to be one of the oldest pubs in Cheam, following complaints of excessive noise.

The complaints relate to a monthly outdoor event called Busy Lady Bingo.

The 19th century drinking hole in Malden Road faces a formal licence review after neighbours raised concerns about late-night noise and disruption.

But the pub’s loyal customers and charity organisers have rallied behind the venue. They argue it was established long before the complaints arose, and that tighter restrictions could put its future at risk.

Sutton councillors will meet on November 13 to consider a request for additional controls on the pub’s operating conditions.

A video submitted by a resident showed drag performer “Sheila Simmonds” using a microphone, swearing and making jokes about people being naked in houses behind the pub in Cookes Lane, while inviting the audience to look towards the properties.

Jason Plent, a local resident, has submitted evidence ahead of the meeting, hoping to trigger a review of the pub’s premises licence over concerns about public nuisance.

He has been corresponding with the council about the issue since 2021, and is acting on behalf of residents from nearby Malden Road, Cookes Lane and Church Road.

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