A Dagenham pub withdrew its application to extend its opening hours ahead of a council licensing committee hearing last night.

An officer was expected to present evidence of noise and drunken assaults close to the Cherry Tree in Wood Lane at a licensing committee.

Officers submitted reports criticising the pub for hosting an alleged Blood and Honour music event in January, concerts which often attract neo-nazis.

But landlord Leigh Friend has written a 12-page report refuting the allegations which, she says, neither the police nor any other officials have raised with her before.

She had applied for a licence to sell alcohol until 3am on Saturdays, Sundays and Good Friday as well as up to 2am on Thursdays and Christmas Eve.

Ms Friend told the Post before withdrawing the application that she had not knowingly put on neo-nazi bands and that the violent incidents cited by police were not linked to the pub.