Police crackdown on lap dancing during Gold Cup week in Cheltenham

A LEGAL loophole means temporary lap dancing clubs will still be able to operate during Gold Cup week.

But a police crackdown and tougher new rules mean the number of people paying for erotic dances could be fewer than ever before.

Only two temporary licences allowing 24 hours of erotic performances have been issued by council bosses.

So far four other venues have told police they intend to host nude shows for one night that week. Licensing officer PC Andy Cook said: "Whereas in 2010 some venues might have held this kind of event on consecutive days during race week, this year they can only do it once.

"Police have a duty to uphold the legislation, so will be checking on premises throughout the week.

"We have an excellent working relationship with Cheltenham's licensed premises, so we don't foresee any problems of this sort.

"Our main priority is that everyone who visits the town for our famous races has a safe and enjoyable time."

Any venue found in breach of the rules during race week, which runs from March 15 to 18, could lose its licence or be fined.

Clubs and bars which have permission for music and dancing can host 24 hours of lap dancing without getting permission from police.

But those without have to apply for a temporary events notice (TEN) to put on erotic shows for the same period.

The Echo understands that Dakota, MooMoo, Fever and Lace are those to name dates for dancing.

Thirteen Degrees and Subtone are yet to confirm whether they will take up the option.

Cheltenham Borough Council has issued temporary events notices to G's and Dakota.

The town's only regular lap dancing bar, Blue Room, will be able to operate as usual.

Last year, six non-licensed venues were able to put on lap dancing for 96 hours during race week by informing the council and police.

Borough councillor Diggory Seacome (C, Lansdown) said: "The reason for any licence is to protect the public safety.

"If any venue is found to be contravening regulations severe action should be taken."

In October, Cheltenham Borough Council unanimously backed a tightening of the rules.

Members said Section 27 of the Policing and Crime Act 2009 it would cut the flurry of temporary venues in race week.

Lace Nightclub manager Steve Burrows said: "It's a good thing because if there's lap dancing everywhere all week Cheltenham turns into a lap dancing town.

"This gives everybody the option to do it if they want to, but only for one night.

"In the past competition has been fierce."

Police records show that in the past disputes between lap dancing agents and club owners in Cheltenham have led to a petrol bomb being thrown at a nightclub window.

And previously officers have in the past stated a lap dancer's earning potential in Gold Cup week is £5,000, making the industry attractive to criminal gangs and people traffickers.

Liz Jaggs, marketing and sales manager, of MooMoo and Fever said: "We are completely undecided at the moment.

"But we are a party venue and we want people to come to have a great party with us in race week."

One way to get round the rules is by ensuring performers' private parts are covered, meaning such a licence may not be needed.