TWO nightclub bosses have been fined after breaching fire safety regulations.

Fire chiefs said they hope the case sends a “clear message” to businesses that fire safety must be taken seriously.

Stephen Bailey, from Bury, and Kevin Clarke, from Breightmet, admitted several charges relating to Coco Lounge, Temptations and Cooler Bar in Silver Street, Bury.

Legal action was brought against the men by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service following inspections of the sites last year.

Bailey, aged 32, of Darvel Close, Breightmet, was fined £550 and ordered to pay £100 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Bailey admitted three offences relating to a lack of suitable and sufficient fire risk assessments and failure to install fire alarms.

Clarke, aged 52, of Sleaford Close, Bury, pleaded guilty to seven charges of failing to safeguard the safety of people using the club.

He was fined a total of £2,700 and ordered to pay £1,906 court costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

The charges included not carrying out suitable and sufficient fire risk assessments, failing to provide a system of training for employees in relation to fire and a lack of fire alarms, illuminated escape signs and fire separation between premises.

The men, who are involved with Silver Street Leisure Ltd, which is based in Smiths Road, Bolton, appeared before Bury Magistrates Court on September 7.

Peter O’Reilly, director of prevention and protection at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We always support businesses that work to make their premises safe for people to use.

“However, we will take action against those businesses that neglect fire safety and, in doing so, put the lives of staff and the public at risk.

“We hope this court case sends a clear message that fire safety must be taken seriously.”