A clothing giant is applying for an alcohol licence in preparation for its boozy Christmas range.

Next, in Southend High Street, is to ask magistrates to grant a licence so it can sell alcohol gift sets.

A spokeswoman for the chain said: "There's not going to be an in-store bar unfortunately. Some of the new range items are cocktail sets and beers. To comply with local by-laws all of the stores have to apply for a licence."

Published Friday, August 1, 2003

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