Neighbours fear drunken rowdiness outside their homes will get worse if a beer garden stays open into the early hours.

They claim they are already victims of nuisance drinkers who urinate and vomit against their houses, and cause a racket when leaving the pub.

Residents say the problems, particularly noise, will increase if people are allowed to use the beer garden at The Billy in Harwich as late as 2am.

Restrictions on the pub's licence means no-one can go into the area after 11pm Monday to Saturday and 10.30pm on Sundays - despite the bar being open later.

Landlord Dean Bull wants that time extended and argues smokers need somewhere to puff while the pub is still serving.

Mr Bull said by allowing smokers into his courtyard later, it would stop them standing out the front in West Street and causing a disturbance there.

Tendring Council's licensing committee is due to discuss the issue at today's meeting.

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