Row blows up over music nights at Sussex village pub

The pub near Horsham has been hosting weekly music tribute acts but has now been accused by nearby residents of creating too much ‘noise.’

The music events – at the Hen and Chicken pub in Southwater – have proved a huge success with tribute acts from the likes of Elvis and Adele.

But now some residents – branded spoilsports by pub go-ers - have complained to Horsham District Council.

And pub owner Belal Ahmed has been told the outdoor singalongs cannot continue.

"It’s really hard to accept,” said Belal. "I have had lots of messages from people about their love for my pub.

“All the Southwater people love this event and I planned another three before the end of summer.”

He said one next week – a Michael Jackson tribute act – would now be held indoors but he would have to cancel others.

Dolly Parton, Elton John and Michael Buble acts had been lined up for future weeks.

He said if people who didn’t like the music had brought their complaints to him, instead of going to the council, he could have done something about it.

"I’m sad, but not broken,” he added.

He pointed out that running a pub business was difficult in current times and he had been depending on the music nights to help boost funds.

Meanwhile, many villagers have taken to social media to express their sorrow and offer their support to the pub.

One person said: “Wow people, come on. Isn’t it great to see people enjoying themselves and a local business doing well.

"After everything we’ve all been through these past two years, you should be happy we’ve still got a local to go to with friends.”

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Another said he was in his garden when he heard ‘Elvis’ last week. “Having Elvis accompany me while I watered my tomatoes, and cut sweet peas last week was awesome.”

Many pointed out that anyone buying a house near a pub should expect to experience some noise.

One added: “There’s so much negativity in this country/world right now we all need a little bit of music and fun ... people really need to lighten up.”