The article concluded:

Bowes, The hotelier from Lynton, is unimpressed by the zealousness of many heath and safety experts. "It beggars belief that they launched a sting operation in my case. I can't believe that two men (joining the band) playing a washboard and a tea-box bass contravenes health and safety laws," he said.

However, North Devon council said it had acted under the guidance of health and safety regulations. Andrew Millie, assistant environmental health manager said: "Someone who is making profit by inviting people into their premises has legal obligations with regard to the safety of those people."

The HSE said last week it supported authorities in their decisions: "There is a partnership agreement between the HSE and local authorities which, in line with its overall strategy, is built around improving current standards of health and safety."