Darlington could become a virtually teetotal borough in November if more licensees do not apply for a new licence to trade, according to the council.

Pubs, clubs and off-licences have one month to apply for a licence under the Licensing Act 2004.

Licensees have until August 6 to apply to Darlington Borough Council to convert their licences to the premises and personal licences, which will allow them to continue trading from November 24, 2005.

The rules apply to any premises that sell alcohol or offer public entertainment, including music, dancing, films, plays, sporting contests, boxing or wrestling.

Traders who sell food after 11pm must apply for a premises licence.

Licensees who miss the August deadline will have to apply for a new licence with no guarantee that it will be granted in time for the November deadline.

The new legislation replaces the 1964 Act and all licences granted under this Act will cease to be effective after 23 November 2005, even if they have been renewed this year at the magistrates' courts. So far, the borough council's licensing department has received only 11 per cent of the anticipated premises licence applications and seven per cent of the expected personal licence applications.

A council spokeswoman said: "With only four weeks to go before the conversion deadline, the reality in November could be a virtually teetotal borough."

Application forms and other information is available on the council's website at www.darlington.gov.uk or from the licensing section, Houndgate, Darlington.