VILLAGERS were celebrating yesterday after a nightclub had its late licence revoked.

Magistrates heard how Whispers nightclub was at the centre of drunken violence and under-age drinking in Liverton Mines, east Cleveland.

Guisborough Magistrates Court heard how police regularly found youths drinking illegally in the club and revellers unconscious in the street. In a pioneering move, Cleveland Police stationed officers on board public buses to help to curb disruption.

Force resources were stretched to the limit when the venue stayed open on a Friday and Saturday until 2am.

Marie Nevison, on behalf of the police, told how late-night revellers have caused so much disruption that elderly residents are threatening to leave their homes.

Andrew Lindsay, chairman of the community forum, said yesterday: "On behalf of the whole community, we thank police for their intervention.

"By bringing this matter to court, the police have hopefully helped us draw a line under the situation and we are pleased with the decision."

Cleveland Police applied to revoke the nightclub licence, owned by Sharon Bickerdyke and husband Andrew.

Inspector Kevin Scott said the force had to employ different tactics and for the first time officers patrolled bus routes to curb disorder.

Ward councillor Mary Lanigan said she had received about 90 complaints about under-age drinking and scenes of anti-social behaviour.

Following the two-day hearing, magistrates revoked the late licence leaving the venue open for normal pub hours.

Mr Bickerdyke told magistrates how he and his wife had only been the owners for three months.

He said: "We took on all its problems and we have tried our best. We have introduced security cameras and all staff are linked by radio.

"We are making every effort to change this venue around."

After the case, Insp Scott said: "I hope this sends out a strong message to other premises that licensees need to take some responsibility for their customers' actions.

"If they are found not to be in proper control, they will be challenged."

Mr and Mrs Bickerdyke, who represented themselves during the hearing, have appealed against the court's decision.