BUSKERS who take to the streets of Dorchester without a special permit could face prosecution, police have warned.

But performers can still apply for permission to entertain the Dorchester public under the Chamber of Commerce's premises licence for only £10 a year.

The Chamber of Commerce took out a premises licence to cover the whole of South Street in March this year so that performers could apply for a reduced rate permit under their name.

The initiative is going well and so far 20 people have sought permission, but there are still others who have yet to apply.

Dorchester police are urging local buskers to make the most of this opportunity and police officers and community support officers are patrolling the area to ensure all entertainers have a permit.

Those performing without licences will be asked to stop and could face prosecution if the necessary permissions are not there.

Ryan Bransome, West Dorset District Council's senior licensing officer, said: "We want to raise the number of street entertainers applying for permission to use the Chamber of Commerce's licence. Their contribution to Dorchester's town makes it a vibrant and interesting place to be, but they do need to be regulated."

PC Kevin House, Dorchester Safer Neighbourhood beat manager, said: "We are fully supportive of the new permit. We will endeavour to police it and provide evidence of non-licensed buskers to West Dorset District Council so that they can pursue prosecution if they wish."

In order to use the Chamber of Commerce's licence, individuals do still have to seek permission and obey the rules that apply. However, the small fee of £10 for the year is significantly less than the £100 application fee that is needed for a premises licence.