Chris Lee has run the George IV in Towngate, Leyland, for more than 10 years but could lose his licence at a South Ribble Council licensing hearing next week.

Lancashire Police claim they are regularly called to the venue to deal with problems including underage drinking, noise nuisance and overcrowding. Officers say the problems have increased over the past 12 months.

The Evening Post also understands that the number of calls to the pub is three times higher than for other premises in the town centre.

A report prepared for the licensing hearing said police have seen a "large number" of incidents which have "raised serious concerns regarding the management of the premises and the behaviour of customers".

These include allegations of theft, assault and criminal damage.

Complaints have also been made about the noise levels from music and customers of the pub, which is currently allowed to open until 1am during the week and 2am at weekends.

The report adds: "The failures outlined seriously impact on the licensing initiatives. The police therefore ask the committee to remove the designated premises supervisor, Mr Lee, and that restrictions be placed on the opening times and conditions be placed on the licence."

Sgt Tony Bushell, licensing officer for Lancashire Police's Southern Division, said: "We are experiencing problems with the premises which is why we are attending the review next week, where we are hoping to modify certain conditions for the premises which will hopefully alleviate these issues."

A spokesman for Punch Taverns, which owns the pub said: "Our priority is to ensure that the George IV trades responsibly. We are working with local police and our licensee to implement the appropriate measures now and following the review. We take matters such as underage drinking extremely seriously."

Mr Lee was unavailable for comment.

The hearing will take place at Leyland Civic Centre in West Paddock, next Thursday at 10am.