THE FAMILY behind a new teens' nightclub in Little Lever believe that in just one week they have made a big impact on solving the problems of youths hanging around street corners.

A catalogue of petty vandalism and abuse from youths gathering around the village has plagued residents.

But owners of the latest nightclub to open in Little Lever hope those days are gone.

The new nightly 'hot spot' has opened in the former Touch of Class nightclub on High Street, and has a strict age restriction policy.

Only 'under-age' teenagers are allowed into the bar . . . much to the approval of parents and police!

The Teen Cave Cafe has three simple rules -- no drugs, no drinking of alcohol and no fighting. An unofficial fourth rule is that it is an "adult free zone".

The cafe bar is the brainchild of Eric Simpson, a father-of-two who says he is only too aware of the boredom suffered by teenagers.

His father, Alan, is his business partner, together with mother, Pauline. In addition to serving food and alcohol-free drinks at no more than shop prices, there are arcade machines, a juke box, a pool table and even graffiti boards.

Monday to Thursday the cafe opens 4pm to 10pm, on Fridays 4pm to 6pm and 7.30pm to 11.30pm, Saturdays 1pm to 6pm and 7.30pm to 11.30pm, and Sundays 1pm to 10pm. During school holidays it is hoped to open 1pm to 10pm during the week. Eric said; "When we opened last Saturday we expected 30 to 40 teenagers. We have a capacity for 130. We opened the doors at 7.30pm and had to close them by 8pm."

A free membership scheme allows Eric, a builder and former doorman, to keep track of who goes into the cafe. He explained: "We send the application forms to parents at the home addresses, and ask for two passport photographs. The scheme gives them a £1 discount on the door."

Cameras are being installed outside the club and 'doormen' regulate who gets in. Teenagers cannot keep coming and going without paying each time on admission.

Eric has also sought advice from the police, drugs teams, the NSPCC, and other organisations, to ensure a point of contact for any troubles which arise.

He said: "So far the kids who have come in here have been brilliant, not like the way they are painted in the press. We give them discipline here in an adult environment, while ensuring they are safe but enjoying themselves.

"We have had a good feedback from adults and kids. Everyone keeps telling me since we've opened how the kids have disappeared off the streets. When they are in here dancing, playing pool or eating in a safe environment, they are not drinking alcohol or causing problems on street corners."

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