An operation led by the police and SIA, resulted in one doorman being caught working without a licence in Newcastle city centre.

The officers visited 13 bars and nightclubs over the course of one Saturday night and checked the badges of all door supervisors they came across.

Most were fully licensed by the SIA, but one bouncer  was unlicensed, meaning proper checks may not have been carried out on his background, including criminal convictions.

A further three were reported to the SIA for contravening licence conditions by with failing to display their badge or displaying a defaced or altered ID.

PC Cassidy, of Newcastle’s Policing team, said: ‘It’s important that all people who are employed on the doors of licensed premises within Newcastle work with a valid licence and within the conditions of the licence issued by the SIA.’

‘Newcastle is a safe and vibrant city and we work closely in partnership with licensed premises and door supervisors to ensure people enjoy their time here.‘

The operation saw 48 door supervisors checked-out, with 47 holding valid SIA licences. The man who did not have the correct badge was removed from duty on the spot but the bar where he worked is not being disclosed while enquiries continue.

Further investigations are being carried out into those who breached licensing conditions.

The SIA Head of Investigation said: ‘We will continue to work with the police to ensure a safe night time environment in the area.’