A MAN has been sentenced at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court after he admitted working illegally as security at the Berkley nightclub in Accrington.

Lloyd Irwin, a former director of Hunter Irwin Security Specialists Ltd, worked as a door supervisor in December 2019 and January 2020, despite not holding a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.

The district judge sentenced Irwin, who pleaded guilty, to a 12-month community order with an 80-hour unpaid work requirement. He was also ordered to pay a £90 victim surcharge and £760.40 costs.

Security Industry Authority investigators, responding to a report of unlicensed door staff, worked with police and Hyndburn Council to uncover a pattern of illegal working at the club.

Pete Easterbrook, of the SIA’s Criminal Investigation Team, said: "This should serve as a warning for anyone who is tempted to pick up work as a door supervisor without an SIA licence.

"It should also make unscrupulous bosses think twice about getting unlicensed staff in to cover a shift at a busy time. It’s not worth it.

"You could find yourself with a criminal record that will end your career in security. Door supervision is a responsible profession that should be left to those who are properly qualified and licensed."

Daniel Webb has denied the claims that he worked illegally at the club. Hee entered a ‘not guilty’ plea and his trial is due to take place at Burnley Magistrates Court on December 17.