Falkirk licensing: Grangemouth cannabis cookie shopkeeper renews licence

In March 2022, Awais Ahmad Chaudhry had his licence endorsed by the board, following his conviction for selling the illegal cookies in his shop, Barrie Foodstore, 40C Hawthorn Street, Grangemouth.

When Mr Chaudry applied to renew his personal licence, his offence came under the spotlight once again when the board met today (Wednesday).

The March meeting of the licensing committee heard that Mr Chaudhry had been convicted after police officers found four jars labelled “premium cannabis cookies” on a routine visit. At the time Sergeant Derek Simpson told the board the cookies were “on open display being offered for sale” when they visited on Friday, March 13, 2020.

The board heard that the cookies had been tested in the police station by the officers and “they did test positive for cannabis.”

Mr Chaudry’s solicitor, Dick Sandeman, strongly denied that his client had any knowledge that they contained cannabis as he had bought them in a reputable cash and carry.

On Wednesday the board’s convener, Provost Robert Bissett, said they had had a “robust discussion” and their decision was taking into account the fact that the board had previously considered the offence and no new evidence was being presented.

He added: “I would just like to reiterate that some members had concerns about what happened previously but we’ve taken advice and so I am minded to grant the application.”

This was agreed by all members and Mr Chaudhry’s licence was renewed.