A NIGHTCLUB has been rapped after a man was stabbed with a broken bottle and a fight described by a police officer as “one of the most violent incidents” in his career.

Owners of After Dark in Nelson Square were brought before the licensing committee at Bolton Town Hall after a 22-year-old was stabbed in the leg and arm in the early hours on Saturday.

The victim is understood to have been trying to break up a fight inside the club, before he felt a jab to his leg and went outside.

While stood in Nelson Square another brawl broke out and he was attacked again by the same men.

Police and paramedics were called to the scene, and the man was taken to hospital for treatment.

Three 19-year-old men were arrested and are currently on bail, pending further enquiries.

Officers from GMP called for an expedited review of the club’s licence after the incident, and councillors heard from officers and legal representatives of the business on Wednesday.

They agreed to strip back the club’s closing time from 4am to 3am, insist on a minimum of six door staff every Friday and Saturday and force the premises to use plastic bottles.

PC Andy Vernon said he was pleased with the steps taken by the licensing committee ahead of the full hearing, set to take place within the next four weeks.

He said: “The licensing committee took a balanced but positive approach to the issues raised.

“These were two serious incidents within a short space of time.

“Officers had attended the premises earlier that night and asked management to clear away all empty bottles.

“Unfortunately later on witnesses have indicated that bottles had been smashed and used as weapons.

“The serious disorder outside the premises was by far one of the most violent incidents I have seen in 19 years of policing Bolton.”

Under the interim steps last admission to the club is 2am while the bar must close at 2.30am

Door staff will also be asked to search all bags larger than a purse and ask revellers to remove coats and hoodies on entry.

It is not the first time club managers have been reprimanded following interventions by the emergency services.

In November 2013 the nightclub was forced to temporarily close when it failed to meet fire safety measures, putting people's lives at risk.

An investigation by fire service officials found blocked fire exits, that emergency signs were not illuminated and that the fire alarm was linked to the DJ system and could not be heard over the music.

The bar was allowed to re-open after it made the changes.

After Dark will find out at a further meeting this month whether it is allowed to keep its alcohol licence.