Prospective licencee Thomas Sinclair, of Principality Taverns, wanted to revive the fortunes of the nightspot Chequers - which closed five years ago.

His application for a public entertainment licence to Pembrokeshire councillors was refused at a meeting on Tuesday night.

Councillor Don Evans, the Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council's Licensing Committee, explained the reasons for the decision.

Mr Evans said that Mr Sinclair's application was refused on the grounds that the premises were unsuitable because of their location.

He added that Mr Sinclair was not a suitable person to hold a public entertainment licence.

Popular spot

The club is in Penally, two miles outside of Tenby, and people living in the village had voiced their concerns over the plans.

About 50 protesters turned up to hear the outcome of the application at the County Hall in Haverfordwest.

Tenby became a popular destination for hen and stag parties over the last few years.

Inspector Les Clark, of Tenby police said: "Tenby is dependent on tourism.

"Some of the pubs in town do cater for well-organised groups which sometimes consist of hen and stag nights."