A “FRUSTRATED” pub owner forgot to submit a new drinks licence – meaning the premises is alcohol-free for the next eight days.

And the error is set to prove costly as he is set to lose around £20,000 as a result.

But to make light of the situation, Nick Warner, 37, wrote a message to customers on an A-board outside the pub poking fun at his own lack of ability to submit a licence variation.

And Mr Warner, owner and director of The Olive Tree, in Romsey, is now allowing loyal customers to bring in their own drinks to enjoy if they wish to do so.

Mr Warner, of Poole, said: “I decided to write the message on the board through my level of frustration and to turn a negative into a positive situation.

“We just signed a new lease and when we did that we formed a new limited company.

“So then I had 28 days to change the name on the premises’ licence but unfortunately myself and two solicitors did not change it so we had to reapply for a new premises licence.

“I’m frustrated with myself for letting it happen.

“However, we’ve had a really positive response from customers.

“We’ve had people for lunch today – some of whom chose to purchase wine from the local wine shop or the supermarkets and bring it here.

“We phoned all our bookings to let them know and some of them bought their own wine.

“Not everybody drinks of course and we serve a range of food. People are still coming in to have coffee and tea or just for lunch without wanting to drink.

“I expect to lose around £20,000 while we wait for the licence.

“I have been at The Olive Tree for three years and we have a massive loyal customer base.

“At the end of the day I want and need to make sure we can look after people which is why we said they can bring in their own drinks if they wish.

“We’ve checked with licensing and its fully within the law for them to bring their own alcohol.

“It was about taking a positive out of the negative.”

Mr Warner realised he would not be able to serve alcohol at The Olive Tree on Tuesday.

He should be able to begin serving again next Thursday, October 22.

The board reads: “To all The Olive Tree lovers due to a lack in the owners ability to submit a licence variation in time, we cannot sell alcohol for eight days.

“We will start again on Thursday 22nd Oct.

“But due to his mistakes he is happy for you to bring your own and continue to enjoy the atmosphere.

“Thank you for your support.”

The Olive Tree, which has a four star rating on TripAdvisor, is still open as usual and serving from 10am-11pm.