Now police and security swoop—on club bouncers

BOUNCERS working at clubs and bars in London’s East End have been inspected as part of an operation by police and the Security Industry Authority. The swoop in Tower Hamlets was to make sure they were working within licensing regulations

BOUNCERS working at clubs and bars in London’s East End have been inspected as part of an operation by police and the Security Industry Authority.

The swoop in Tower Hamlets was to make sure they were working within licensing regulations.

The 32 door staff were inspected and 31 held valid licences, with checks taking place in areas including Canary Wharf, Mile End and Brick Lane in Spitalfields.

Police issued a formal warning to a doorman who was displaying a photocopy instead of his real licence, which he claimed was at home.

A bar owner who was employing his own bouncers claimed to hold a licence—but investigators found no record of it in his name. Further enquiries were being made before action is decided.

The authority’s own security investigations chief, Christy Hopkins, warned: “Those who do not hold a licence or do not display their licence put themselves at risk of prosecution. Those employing door staff have their legal responsibilities.”

Staff on security at club and pub entrances must hold a front line’ licence from the authority which they have to display while working.

Those who manage, supervise or employ bouncers must hold a non front line’ licence.