Geordie-Peorgie - that's another option we will try. Don't know the pub, myself - do they have a big enough room to hold about 60? Will investigate.

Richard - there was nothing like a written contract, just a series of exchanged emails, a couple of telephone conversations and a visit. Total advertising and other expenses to date less than £100 which doesn't buy much solicitor time. Besides which, if the manager doesn't want us there, is there any point in forcing the matter?

Alan