AN ex-licensee of a troubled town centre bar has been evicted and the building finally closed down.

Cheers bar joint licensee Fajul Patel was arrested during a police raid at the King William Street premises on Wednesday.

He had been living inside against the wishes of landlords Hurstwood Group and police said they were investigating claims boozy underage parties were being held on the premises.

Hurstwood also moved in to secure the premises.

Estates director Henry Hill of owners Hurstwood Group said: “There is significant damage internally with fixtures missing.

"The cost of repair could run into thousands of pounds. He has been using it as a doss house.

“The plans for the future are to have it renovated and marketed to professional tenants. Possibly retail or a restaurant. We want to assist the council with a rejuvenated building.

“It will unfortunately take a while to get rid of the stigma attached to the building, but we will market it as a jewel for the future rather than an eyesore.”

Town centre Sgt Dave Clarke said: “Despite the fact that Cheers Bar now has had no licence to serve alcohol or provide entertainment to the public the premises has continued to cause sporadic problems within the town centre.

“We have continued to target the property and I would hope the public are satisfied that we have acted on information they have passed and shared their concerns with regards the ages of visitors and customers at the premises.”

The closure marks the end of a lengthy episode of controversy for Cheers bar and the adjoining Bella Roma restaurant which had its licence revoked last year over mass violence, underage drinking and drug use.

Patel and co-licensee Gino DiFilippo appealed and carried on trading until they were arrested on suspicion of stealing a £3,000 fruit machine.

They both deny that offence.