The Druids Head is to become a full-blown live music venue, after licensing bosses backed plans for bands to perform at the popular Market Place pub.

Previously, duos were allowed to play, but bigger acts required a change in licence to perform.

The pub secured this change when the council's licensing committee met on Thursday.

But, Druids Head manager Declan McCullough said, although the licence had changed, it did not mean there would be sweeping changes at the pub.

He said: "This really just means we can stay open a bit longer to cater for a crowd who are not so interested in going clubbing.

"Our age range is from 25 to 40, and the kind of music planned is of the foot-tapping kind."

He said there may also be a DJ on Friday or Saturday nights.

The licensing committee received 27 letters objecting to the pub's application, mainly from residents living in Charter Quay.

But members took the view that the pub is in the town centre, and certain levels of late-night noise must be accepted. Mr McCullough said he would work with residents to resolve any problems.

The licence states live music must finish by midnight and the band must have left the premises by 12.30am. The pub must also install CCTV on the door and employ at least three bouncers. The latest anyone is allowed in will be 11pm.