Last updated 19:49, Thursday, 09 October 2008

WORKINGTON nightclub and pub owner Kevin Norman has been praised by police for improving the way his premises are run.

Well run: Kevin Norman, praised by police over improvements at his club Hogs and Heffers

Mr Norman, who runs pubs the Curwen Arms and the Travellers Rest and nightclub Hogs and Heffers, lost his premises supervisor’s licence in August following a review, ordered by police, after violence outside one of his venues.

He was ordered to install an electronic counter and employ more door staff to ensure the safety of those inside the property.

Three weeks ago, Hogs and Heffers hosted pop act the Vengaboys, and Sergeant Richard Farnworth, of Workington police’s community team, said Mr Norman had done well to ensure there were no problems in or around his Jane Street club.

Sgt Farnworth said: “Kevin has done a good job since his last licence hearing.”

He added that he had acted on police suggestions to improve the situation at his pubsWe have met him a few times and he has put into practice the advice we have given him.

“He is trying hard and did a good job the other weekend when he had the Vengaboys in Hogs and Heffers. His door staff turned away a lot of underage people that night,” added Sgt Farnworth.

Mr Norman said that the police had been a big help, monitoring people going into his bar.

He added: “We have installed CCTV cameras around the building to make sure that we can help the police with any problems that do arise.

“Saying that, we would hope that no incidents will happen outside the bars.

“The police were on hand during the night and I think we have the violence issue under control.

“We have abided by every rule and it is nice for the police to have noticed this.”

Mr Norman added that he had more ideas for the town with other big-name acts planned for the future.

He said: “We have some big things planned for the future so watch this space. The Vengaboys were brilliant and everyone had a great night.”