The Rampant Horse allowed live music after noise complaints

The Rampant Horse Inn, in Needham Market, has been able to save its lively music scene following a decision from the council's licensing committee.

The 16th century pub on Coddenham Road feared losing its licence after complaints over noise prompted an investigation by Mid Suffolk District Council.

The licensing committee reviewed the pub's licence to consider reinstating the condition that prohibited outdoor music, which the pub was able to self-suspend following the government’s deregulation of outdoor music in 2012.

After a hearing by the licensing authority, it has now been decided that the premises can hold live music in external areas on two occasions a month, between May and September, on Fridays and Saturdays between the hours of 12pm and 9.30pm.

Pub manager Alison Wyartt said: "We are really pleased. We had around 1,400 signatures on our online petition and around 800 paper signatures, which was absolutely fantastic as they had to come in-person to sign.

Alison Wyatt is the landlady of The Rampant Horse Pub (Image: Alison Wyatt)

"We initially thought we were going to lose our license for outdoor live music completely, so we are very pleased with the outcome.

"So many people love our live music events, and we have said all along that there must be a compromise, so we are really glad that they came to that decision in the end.

The community pub is known for its live music events (Image: Google)

"People are passionate about their music, and the atmosphere is just lovely out there when there is music on. It's just community spirit and a family atmosphere.

"If people live near the pub and there is music outside, if they are sitting in their gardens then they are going to hear it, but hopefully this will be acceptable to everyone.

"We can continue with the music, and hopefully everybody can be happy."