COUNCILLORS have lifted the suspension of a County Durham cricket club's licence, imposed after the stabbing of a man.

However, they have put in place a series of stringent conditions and say police will be closely monitoring events at Etherley CC, near Bishop Auckland, during the coming months.

The premises licence – which allows the public to use the clubhouse bar along with members – was suspended in December after a man was stabbed during an evening function on Boxing Day.

Members of Durham County Council's statutory licensing sub-committee were told police were happy for the suspension to be lifted after club officials agreed to a series of additional conditions to the licence.

These include the removal of designated premises supervisor Fred Adams from the post and that only cricket club members and their guests can use the facilities after 10pm.

CCTV cameras must operate in all interior areas of the clubhouse, recording 24-hours a day. Cameras must also cover the main entrance and picture quality must be good enough to recognise people's faces. They must also cover front and rear exits.

Alcohol can only be served in plastic glasses and the club must operate the Challenge 25 scheme with drinkers asked to produce proof of age.

Police are also insisting the club must have more door staff on duty at large scale events.

An incident log must record any crimes, ejections, disorder, drug use, offensive weapons and details of anyone refused entry. The log must be made available to police on request.

Youngsters under 18 must be supervised by an adult at all times and children must leave the premises by 9pm.

Sub-committee chairman, Councillor David Marshall, said he was happy with the outcome of negotiations between the police and the club's committee.

“I would ask the police to be vigilant and keep a very close eye on the club in the future,” he said, adding: “The CCTV will show up any inappropriate activity.”

Since the stabbing, club officials have unveiled plans for a £50,000 new pavilion and major ground improvements costing another £36,000.

The club does not currently run a senior team, but does have a thriving junior section with under-11 and under-13s currently practising for the coming season.