Addleshaws gives backing to on-line bubbly ventureAddleshaw Booth & Co has helped set up what is thought to be the country's first 'virtual off-licence'.It advised Champagne Warehouse on launching a Web site specialising solely in champagnes unavailable through traditional UK retail outlets.Web sites may sell alcohol if they also have a licensed retail outlet; for Champagne Warehouse, 'obtaining licensing approval has been particularly complex', said Addleshaw licensing specialist Paddy Whur.

'We have had to comply with 19th-century case law, which obviously doesn't make provision for sales over the Net.'The company will operate from a licensed suite in Park Square in Leeds.

'In accordance with the Licensing Act, a physical premises is required for a license to be granted,' said Mr Whur.

'Therefore, although the Park Square suite is the licensed point of sale for regulation purposes, champagne won't be sold directly from the premises.

As such, the whole process has necessitated careful negotiation with the regulatory authorities.'Mr Whur said he hoped this issue would be addressed in the forthcoming government legislation reforming the licensing system.LINKS www.champagnewarehouse.comNeil Rose