THE owner of a nightclub that has had its licence suspended for two months is to appeal against the decision.

On Monday, Babergh District Council’s licensing sub-committee voted to suspend the licence of Easterns Station Lounge, in Sudbury because they believed the club’s owner David Pratt had breached his licensing conditions.

The move by Suffolk’s police and trading standards to strip the club of its licence came after a joint undercover test purchase operation at the Great Eastern Road premises on November 17, during which four children gained entry to the club and bought alcohol. Police also made allegations that violence and lewd behaviour had taken place in the club.

But last night, in a statement issued through Dadds Licensing Solicitors, Mr Pratt confirmed that he would fight the suspension.

The statement read: “Our client is naturally disappointed with the result of the hearing. (Mr Pratt) has always fully co-operated with the police and the other licensing authorities and will continue to do so. However, he strongly disagrees with some of the assumptions made.

“Our client was also badly let down by the door supervisor company, who were supposed to check for identification of persons under 25. Our client’s members of staff were trained even though it was alleged they had not been. Our client will be appealing this decision as he believes it to be wrong and (he) is confident he will succeed.”

Babergh Local Policing Commander, Inspector Paul Crick, said police were pleased that the licensing committee had supported their concerns.

He added: “We consider that a two-month suspension is a proportionate response and reflects the gravity of the breaches.

“We reiterate the message that action will be taken against premises that do not adhere to their licence conditions and especially those that put young persons at risk.”