A NIGHTCLUB owner has been forced to put in place stricter safety measures at his club where a girl was allegedly given a date rape drug.

Kirklees Council’s licensing committee heard yesterday how Jason Hardy – owner of Mungo’s nightclub in Batley – has been working with West Yorkshire Police to improve security at the club.

The committee have decided to modify the venue’s licence to make the extra measures mandatory.

The action was taken after a 17-year-old girl was rushed to Dewsbury District Hospital after drinking a poisonous substance, possibly the drug GHB, at the club on January 23.

West Yorkshire Police have alleged a string of offences – including assault, theft and a serious sexual assault – have taken place at the Bradford Road club in the last eight months.

Mr Hardy has been told that he must train up or find a female to work as a member of the door staff – searching women coming into the club.

He was also told that he must make sure the CCTV systems covered the whole club including the outside areas, the DJ booth and the entrance foyer.

Mr Hardy must fully train his staff and tell them to ask anyone who looks under 21 for ID.

And all customers will be given wrist bands so that staff know they have paid in and not sneaked in.

Mr Hardy said: “I totally agree with what the licensing officers have suggested and it is already all in place.

“If this makes the club a safer place then I am happy.”