MORAY COUNCIL HAS warned those seeking extended licensing hours for special events over the festive season may already be too late.
The local authority has published a reminder that any such applications should in any case be submitted not later than 28 days prior to a planned event.
A spokesman said: “This is because of the statutory consultation requirements, which means that we cannot guarantee to process any application in a shorter time period.”
As the 28-day point has already gone there is little point in anyone now seeking a special events licence. However, those who did place their request before the deadline should still receive permission.
The spokesman added: “We are continuing to process the numerous applications already received but for any proposed new applications, we need to reaffirm that, although we will do our best no application received now is guaranteed to complete processing before the office closes on December 23.
“Any applications received after December 14 we will be unable to start processing until the offices reopen on January 4, 2017.”