A TROUBLED Leytonstone pub has been allowed to keep its licence following a review today.

The Sheepwalk, in Leytonstone High Road, was given three months to turn around in July after residents complained of drug taking, underage drinking and anti-social behaviour.

Police have since acknowledged significant improvements under the management of proprietor Helena Gannon.

PC Peter Neale, of the licensing office at Waltham Forest police, said: “I requested a full survey of the area by the crime prevention officer.

“CCTV and good housekeeping are at a satisfactory standard.”

And although traces of cocaine were found in the men's toilets, PC Neale said this was a major improvement and traces were found at all premises he had checked.

However, officers also said glasses and bottles have been confiscated outside the pub since July and on one occasion, several people were found drinking inside after hours.

Residents also expressed concerns over the pub's late opening hours and over the lack of a 'noise limiter'.

Speaking at today's meeting of the council's licensing act 2003 sub-committee, Mrs Gannon made an impassioned plea to be allowed to keep her livelihood.

She said: “I apologise to the police and the council and residents for all I've put you through.

“I want to thank PC Neale for giving me the opportunity to turn the pub round. I want to be friends with my neighbours and the police.”

She also volunteered to be part of a 'Pubwatch' network, soon to be reinstated in the borough.

Mrs Gannon will be allowed to keep her licence but has been asked to make sure no one takes glasses or bottles outside and that no more than 10 people are allowed outside to smoke at once.

She has also been asked to display a contact telephone number so that residents can get in touch if they have a complaint.

Quarterly meetings will be held with residents to discuss the pub's progress and address any concerns.

The pub will also be required to use a 'challenge 21' policy as well as employing a Security Industry Authority-registered door supervisor after 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays and when the function room is in use.

A 'noise limiter' will also be installed, which will cause music to cut out once it reaches a certain level.

Mrs Gannon said: "I'm relieved but I would have been shocked if it had gone any other way.

"I've given the pub 110 per cent since July - I've been here 24/7.

"The pub is drug-free and there's no underage drinking.

"The clientele is completely different. I'm hoping I can continue to give my best and move forward."