New Forest residents are being invited to have their say on radical changes to public drinking and entertainment laws.

Whether you are delighted or devastated at the possibility of pubs serving drinks for 24 hours, New Forest District Council wants to hear from you. All aspects of the Licensing Act 2003, coming into effect in February next year, will come under the microscope at a series of public meetings across the Forest.

The new laws will affect pub licensing laws, including how long pubs can serve booze, hot food vendors, entertainers and indoor sport, with some of the policy being decided by the district council.

Councillor Bill Dow, chairman of the general purposes and licensing committee, said: "It is important that anyone with an interest in licensing not only familiarises themselves with the new proposals but also takes the time to comment as part of the consultation process.

"I urge you to come and talk to one of the council's licensing officers so you can understand how the changes are likely to affect you."

Meetings will take place at:

Avonway Community Centre, Fordingbridge, 6pm-7.30pm, Tuesday, October 12

Totton Community Centre, Totton, 3pm-4.30pm, Wednesday, October 13

New Milton Memorial Centre, 6.30pm-8pm, Friday, October 15

Appletree Court, Lyndhurst, 6.30pm-8pm, Monday, October 18

Hythe Parish Hall, West Shore House, 6.30pm-8pm, Tuesday, October 19

Ringwood Public Offices, 3pm-4.30pm, Wednesday, October 20

Lymington Town Hall, 3pm-4.30pm, Thursday, October 21.