ALMOST 2000 people have signed a petition to keep live music playing at a Stourport pub after fears the council could pull the plug.

Maggie Flight, licensee at the Rock Tavern Pub in Wilden, has said she feels the future of live music at the riverside beer garden is being "threatened" following noise complaints.

She says events this year have complied with the pub's outdoor music license and have been vital in its recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, Worcestershire Regulatory Services are now working with the pub following a "number of noise complaints from several local residents".

The 53-year-old landlord said: "We are a family pub. Right now we feel threatened.

"I'm genuinely worried. Pubs are struggling. It’s really difficult right now."

A petition was launched in support of the popular pub - which has now received nearly 2000 signatures. It can be viewed via www.change.org/p/wyre-forest-council-keep-live-entertainment-playing-at-the-rock-tavern-stourport?redirect=false. 

Voicing their support, one resident said: "I live near the Rock Tavern, though not a regular pub-goer I can hear the music but it is on at a reasonable time and never late.

"The owners have worked very hard to develop the riverside garden and keep their business open in these difficult times." 

Another said: "We've missed out on live music for too long, the local area is crying out for entertainment. Don't take this away." 

Kidderminster Shuttle: The riverside garden where live acts perform The riverside garden where live acts perform

Another said: "Pub entertainment is important to the community and if you choose to live next to a pub a little bit of noise is to be expected.

"It's not every night and doesn't go on too late."

Another said: "Local pubs and live music should be encouraged."

Councillor Nicky Martin said: “After receiving complaints, an officer from Worcestershire Regulatory Services visited the pub and made the owners aware that live bands performing outdoors are causing a noise nuisance to neighbours.

"The officer suggested measures they could introduce to contain the noise. Unfortunately, Worcestershire Regulatory Services has received more noise complaints so are continuing with their investigation.

“Worcestershire Regulatory Services will continue to work with the owners of the pub to make sure they are operating within the law and live bands are not disturbing local residents.”