Council bosses are urging pub, club and restaurant bosses to fill in paperwork to avoid getting a booze ban when new law changes are introduced.

Officials at Hastings Borough Council have said publicity surrounding the changes had still not reached the bosses of many establishments.

They are being warned if they fail to return forms by August 6 they could be banned from selling alcohol.

Sussex Police has already said it may be forced to shut down dozens of venues across the county if they slip from being licensed to unlicensed.

Council licensing officers fear a last-minute deluge of applications will result in delays, meaning some may not be processed in time.

Under the changes, due to come into force by November, responsibility for granting licences switches from magistrates to councils.

Councillor Godfrey Daniel said: "The last thing we want is to close down unlicensed venues just because licensees have not sent in their forms in good time.

"I would urge all licensees to double check they have got their paperwork in order.

"Any pub or club not looking for changes in their licence conditions should have their licence automatically converted but they still need to send the forms in."