The Licensing Act 2003 controls all regulated entertainment including live or recorded music, plays, films and pantomimes etc, and these activities must be licensed appropriately.

Places of worship are exempt, however, the exemption does not apply to church halls or rooms.

Keith Kennard, North Cornwall District Council Licensing Officer, said: "If you are holding an event in a church or associated building, and are unsure whether you will need a licence, please contact us so we can advise you on what is required.

"As long as your proposed activities do not include the sale of alcohol, such as cheese and wine evenings, there is no fee for the licence.

"We can help you make sure you complete any required paperwork in time for your event, although please give us as much notice as possible.

"There is a Temporary Event regime for events with alcohol such as weddings and the fee is only £21. Please contact us for further information on licensing for any future events you may be planning."

All application forms and detailed guidance is available from http://www.ncdc">www.ncdc. gov.uk, by email [email protected]">[email protected], or telephone 01208 893510.