Meet Britain's youngest licensee - almost! On Monday, when Chloe Hogg celebrates her 18th birthday, she will also be handed her very own alcohol licence.

For, while most of her peers are at sixth form college and spending their weekend drinking in bars, Chloe, from Carlisle, has been working in a restaurant and learning the management ropes.

Her father, Kenny Hogg, has owned Fantails in Wetheral since before his eldest daughter Chloe was born.

And, while it is his passion, he knew there were no guarantees the family business would be passed to the next generation.

"It's just great," said Kenny. "I've been in Fantails for 21 years and Chloe, in the early days, used to sit in her crib in the door. She's grown up here."

However, Chloe decided she wanted to apply for a Personal Licence - although this cannot be issued until her 18th birthday.

Despite the age barrier, in May she underwent a day long training and examination course to achieve the qualifications needed.

Chloe said: "The other people on the course were kind of surprised, because everyone thought you had to be over 18 to sit the course - they didn't realise you just can't get the licence until you're 18."

While Kenny will remain the Designated Premises Supervisor for Fantails, it means she can act as the designated premises supervisor for any business that sells or supplies alcohol - including stamping her mark on the family business.

"I'm very excited," she said. "Fantails has been a big part of my life: both parents worked in the business.

"It will be good fun. At the moment I'm really enjoying working in the hospitality industry.

"I plan to work here for a few years before going off travelling. I want to maybe work in other bars or pubs around the world and bring back what I've learned to Carlisle."

Chloe added: "I haven't really had the conversation with my friends: a lot are at sixth form and don't understand how much of a big thing it is to me.


Chloe Hogg "People think working in a restaurant is just waitressing, but it's so much more. I can't wait."

The teenager has been working in the restaurant for some time and, while she has not been legally able to serve the drinks, she has already had an impact on the bar.

"She's introduced all sorts of different gins," Kenny continued, "and mixes up cocktails - she even has one named after her, Chloe's Secret."

Carlisle City Council confirmed that when she receives her licence, it will make her one of the youngest licensees in the country.