PUBS and clubs in Helensburgh will be allowed to party until 3am on key festive dates after extended licensing hours were approved last week.

Argyll and Bute Council’s licensing board agreed to allow licensed premises to remain open until that time on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Hogmanay and New Year’s Day.

Businesses will also have their terminal hour extended by an hour over the festive hours period, which runs from Friday, December 7 to Wednesday, January 2 into Thursday, January 3.

Children will also be allowed, under parental supervision, to attend family events until 1am on New Year’s Day.

Applications from premises to extend their hours must be received by the council no later than 35 days before the date on the proposed date of longer opening times.

Late night conditions, including curfews, curtailment of music at a certain time and stewarding, will all still apply.

More information, along with the application process, is available via the council’s website at www.argyll-bute.gov.uk