A MAYBOLE petrol station will more than double the size of its booze aisle.

JD Cameron will increase the capacity of its alcohol display area from 8.69sq metres to 18.25sq metres after a variation of premises licence was granted by South Ayrshire Council's licensing board last week.

The popular store, which is owned by BDC Fuels but trades under the JD Cameron name was granted the licence despite no company representatives being present.

And in a twist to the decision making process, Ayr East councillor Ian Douglas, who initially called for the application to be continued until a personal appearance was made by the owner, performed a last gasp u-turn.

Initially Councillor Douglas said: "I'd move that we continue this for a personal appearance. I think a the very least we want to be questioning this owner over his motives." Maybole, North Carrick and Coylton councillor Sandra Goldie didn't see the need for a personal appearance and said: "All I would say is that I'd accept what Councillor Douglas has said but I'd point out that the space there at the moment is so small and that's why he's applied for this extension.

"I disagree with Councillor Douglas with this. I don;t think it should be treated any differently from any other application." And Councillor Mary Kilpatrick added: "I think we should make a decision this morning." This prompted Councillor Douglas to back-track on his original statement and he said: "In that case I'm happy to approve this application."