THE Merkinch Arms may be forced to close for a year. Highland Licensing Board on 9th February revoked owner George Maclean’s licence after hearing undercover police officers had witnessed drug transactions being carried out regularly, in a six-month covert operation . The police called for the pub’s closure because it had caused “undue public nuisance or a threat to public order or safety”. Mr Maclean, who has 30 years’ experience in the licensed trade, has also had his licence for the Muirtown Lodge, which he also owns, suspended for six months. He has lodged an appeal.