EAST Lothian’s smallest pub is keen to offer customers the chance to raise their glass a little bit later in their beer garden.

Visitors to Station Yard Micropub, beside Dunbar Railway Station, can enjoy a drink outdoors until 8pm.

But pub boss Gerard McPhillips has requested East Lothian Council amends the premises’ planning consent for that to be extended until 10pm throughout the week.

A supporting statement notes: “Being located so close to Dunbar railway station, the garden is particularly popular with commuters heading home in the evening, especially during the summer months.

“Closing the garden at 8pm significantly restricts its use and our customers’ enjoyment of it.

“Out-with the summer months, on some weekdays we do not open until 5pm, which means our customers only have a three-hour window should they wish to sit out and enjoy the garden.

“Additionally, given the relatively limited interior space available at Station Yard, having the option to use the garden area helps to improve the overall amenity and ambience we are able to offer our customers.

“Extending the time we are able to do this until 10pm, will significantly improve what we are able to offer our customers.”

Mr McPhillips noted that the pub, which opened in December 2017, had “carved out a niche in the town as an upmarket drinking establishment” with “a loyal and regular clientele”. He expected an extension of hours would not cause any “problems or nuisance”.