A CONVENIENCE store in Bournemouth town centre has lost its licence over ‘paperwork issues’.

ANJ Off Licence in St Michael’s Road will no longer be allowed to sell alcohol or provide licensable activities.

The owner made an 'honest mistake' which led to him running the shop with an invalid licence for years, according to the council. 

Dorset Police requested a review of ANJ’s licence at the beginning of December.

It followed reports the premises operator had been involved in alleged criminal activity, mainly the purchasing of stolen goods.

The shop’s owner, Michael Sollinger, said this related to an incident in which he had purchased stolen headphones over the counter.

He stated he did not know they were stolen, however, cooperated with police on the matter.

During ‘basic checks’ made following the review request, BCP Council discovered the company the licence was registered to had been dissolved in 2018.

Michael had since started a new company but hadn’t informed the licensing team.

He had 28 days to transfer the licence to the new company name, but failed to do so, explained BCP Council.

As a result of this finding, the premises licence was immediately revoked.

The local authority said Michael didn’t know he had to inform anyone of the changes, and believed it was an “honest mistake” on his behalf.

Dorset Police’s request for a review will no longer proceed, and Michael will have to apply for a new premises licence.

ANJ Off Licence remains open, but the alcohol shelves behind the till have been blocked off with sheets.

Michael, who has owned the shop for 12 years, says he plans to re-apply for a premises licence.

Speaking to the Daily Echo at the beginning of December, he said: “I do my best to uphold my licence. I’ve been here for 12 years, and I’ve never had any issues with the police over my alcohol sales or licensing.

“I’ve always worked with the police. I give them everything they need. I do not serve people that are on drink or drugs, I am strict with ID.

“I’m worried about my licence. If they take my licence, I have no business.”