The new licences come into force in November

Only 10% of the expected licence applications have been put forward in time for when the new rules come into force in November.

Businesses which sell alcohol, serve food or put on entertainment after 2300 must apply for a new licence by August.

Those who fail to do so will be unable to trade.

Lancashire police said many licensees affected by the act - which now includes takeaways - do not understand their obligations.

'Unable to trade'

The Lancashire Licensing Officers Group - which represents the police, councils and courts - has set up helplines, trade forums and open days to try to get the message across.

Paul Charlson, chairman of the Lancashire Licensing Officers Group, said: "We all have great concerns that with only weeks to go before the end of the transitional period, there have been so few applications.

"The message is clear: time is running out. All existing licensed businesses must apply to their local council before 6 August 2005 if they wish to convert their existing permissions.

"However if any business affected by the act does not have a licence by 24 November 2005, they will not be able to trade - it's as simple as that. "