The Islington Licensing Sub Committee A convened to review the premises licence for The Charlotte Despard, located at 17-19 Archway Road. After hearing from all parties, the committee decided against modifying or revoking the licence, deeming such actions disproportionate. However, the committee welcomed the undertaking of Amber Knight and Chris Sparks to transfer the licence solely into the name of Amber Knight, who is also the designated premise supervisor (DPS).

Charlotte Despard Licence Review

The primary focus of the meeting was the review of the premises licence for The Charlotte Despard, initiated by the Metropolitan Police due to concerns about crime, disorder and public safety. The review was prompted by a violent incident at the pub in February 2025, and subsequent issues regarding missing CCTV footage and a perceived lack of engagement from the licence holder with the authorities.

Metropolitan Police Concerns and Recommendations

The police representative highlighted a horrific incident that occurred on 1 February 2025, where staff were violently assaulted. They also raised concerns about missing CCTV footage from the night and what they described as a lack of co-operation from the premises licence holder and DPS, Christopher Sparks, in addressing these issues.

The police initially sought to update the licence conditions and replace Christopher Sparks as the DPS. However, their position evolved, with their representative stating that, due to subsequent events, they were now urging the committee to consider revocation of the licence, referencing paragraphs 11.26 and 11.27 of the section 182 guidance¹ which state that revocation ought to be a serious consideration in serious cases. The police representative argued that the licence holder and DPS had failed to uphold the licensing objectives and that the police had no confidence in their ability to do so in the future.

The police are saying they have no confidence that if there is a spark at this place those responsible for maintaining peace promoting the licensing objectives are not able to do so

The police representative also drew attention to the missing six minutes of CCTV footage, describing it as a crucial missing six minutes .

Licensing Authority's Stance

Terry Lane, Licensing Authority, stated that they supported the police position, but acknowledged the committee's other available options, including suspending the licence or imposing further conditions. Terry Lane referenced what they described as a poor attitude and hostility to authorise officers and the lack of constructive engagement from the licence holder.

Defence of the Premises

Numerous representations were made in support of The Charlotte Despard, with many local residents and patrons attesting to its importance as a community hub and a safe space. Several individuals spoke about the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere fostered by Amber Knight and Chris Sparks, and their commitment to the local community.

Steve Kennedy, a patron present during the incident, disputed the police's description of events, stating that Christopher Sparks and Amber Knight had behaved professionally and that violence was initiated by the person trying to gain entry.

Lauren Patman, another supporter, emphasised the pub's role in fostering community and providing a safe space, particularly for those working late.

Dr Javaria Siddiqui, a local resident, expressed solidarity with the pub and its landlords, stating that she had never felt unsafe there and that Chris Sparks had even walked her home on occasions when she felt unsafe.

Ned Rogers, a regular customer, voiced his disappointment that there had been no prosecution for the assault, and expressed his full support for the licensees.

License Holders' Response

Amber Knight, one of the owners of The Charlotte Despard, apologised for the situation and attributed any misunderstandings or miscommunications to a serious head injury she sustained during the assault. She explained the circumstances surrounding the missing CCTV footage, stating that it was due to a technical glitch and that she was devastated by its loss. Amber Knight also outlined the steps she had taken to improve security at the premises, including installing additional CCTV cameras and upgrading the alarm system.

Chris Sparks described a timeline of judgement and character assassination by the police licensing team. He stated that he had been called an evidence tamperer and a liar, and that he felt discriminated against due to his neurodivergence².

Committee Decision

Despite the serious concerns raised by the police and licensing authority, the committee decided not to modify or revoke the premises licence. Councillor Heather Staff, Chair of Licensing Committee and Migrants Champion, urged the licence holders to pay close attention to the existing conditions on their licence, particularly regarding CCTV and the presence of personal licence holders. She also encouraged them to seek help from the licensing authority and police if needed.

The committee welcomed the offer from Amber Knight and Chris Sparks to transfer the licence into Amber Knight's name, hoping that this would lead to a better working relationship with the authorities in the future.

Leo Chevrolet Meadu, Barrister for the Metropolitan Police, suggested that if an application for transfer was made within 21 days, that transfer would have immediate effect, and that Terry Lane and Niall Forde from the licensing authority would be able to help and advise on that.