A BALLOCH nightclub has banned naval and military personnel after what it claims are a number of “serious incidents” – including an incident in which nightclub staff were attacked.

Management at Desire Nightclub say the decision to enforce a three-month ban was taken on behalf of patrons’ safety and for the good of the business.

The news follows a recent court case in Helensburgh, where a publican gained national attention for punching two sailors who refused to leave one of his bars.

He was cleared of assault on the grounds of self defence.

In a statement released to the Reporter confirming the ban, a spokesman for Desire Nightclub said: “It is with huge regret we find ourselves in this position but we must think of patrons’ safety and the licence of our business.

“We have had a number of serious incidents involving military personnel and in one particularly serious incident, we had a number trying to gain access to a children’s party and attacking staff.

“We have tried every other avenue and feel this is the only option and we are open to any suggestions as to move this issue forward.”

Responding to news of the ban, a Royal Navy spokesman said: “It would be inappropriate for us to comment on the admission policies of business establishments as this would be a matter for the proprietor.

“The Royal Navy population reflects society as a whole and the vast majority behave responsibly and are valued members of the community. Sadly, there can sometimes be a minority whose behaviour is unacceptable.

“The Service takes a very dim view of those who do not meet the high standards expected of them and there are a range of measures which can be taken, including, in some cases, discharge from the Service.

“Royal Navy Police currently conduct high visibility patrols in the area, regularly attend both Pubwatch meetings and meetings with local business owners, and work jointly with Police Scotland to offer reassurance to the local community.

“The Naval Base values its strong links with the community and will continue to take measures to ensure that Service personnel are aware of and display the standards of behaviour which is expected of them at all times.”

The ban follows the case of Helensburgh restauranteur Milan Nikolic, who was recently cleared of assaulting navymen John Hamilton and Matthew Liptrott, who entered his Riverbank Bar and Restaurant in April last year and acted abusively towards staff.

Mr Nikolic was found not guilty of the charges after successfully arguing his actions were made in self-defence, and he called on the Navy to do more to improve the behaviour of personnel when in the town and out of the base.

Following the Helensburgh incident, a spokesman for Vale of Leven Pubwatch said: “I can confirm this was discussed at our recent pub watch meeting and one of our licensed premises members did mention they would be enforcing a three-month ban on navy and military personnel in their Balloch venue due to recent behaviour of some individuals from the base.

“This decision was a last resort for them but after long consultation with the RNP, MOD, and Police Scotland, it was seen as the only way to highlight the problem.”