A Surbiton wine bar could lose its licence to sell alcohol after police officers broke up a New Year party they had seen advertised on Facebook.

Vinoteque staff will appear at a Kingston Council hearing next week.

Police said the Claremont Road bar’s New Year party overran in breach of its licence - one of a number of breaches since July last year, according to PC James Hartland.

Councillors could impose other penalties, like suspension or added operating conditions, at the hearing.

Patrons defended owner Larisa Noaca in letters to police.

One said the party was "a very well run enjoyable evening, in a very safe environment", while another said "it was an excellent evening conducted in a professional manner that has been typical of Larisa and her staff".

The second correspondent added: "Only since the bar has become the Vinoteque have my wife and I felt a positive welcoming vibe in the bar."

But another complained the bar regularly played music too loudly and said they had been "bombarded with noise throughout the week".

  • The review hearing will take place from 10.30am next Tuesday, February 24, at the Guildhall.