MADISONS bar in Northwich town centre has been closed for good after owner John Bates surrendered his licence.

Cheshire West and Chester Council licensing chiefs were expected to close down the High Street nightspot at a hearing tomorrow, Friday - at the police’s request.

But Mr Bates, recently cautioned for affray following an incident in which a 55-year-old man was attacked outside the bar, gave up the licence today.

Cheshire Police spokeswoman Shelley Williams said: “Prior to a hearing scheduled for May 22, the Premises Licence for Madisons Bar, Northwich has been voluntarily surrendered by the operators.”

The premises has been shut since RAOB (Buffs) Club steward Frank Pemberton, of London Road, Northwich was assaulted in the early hours of Saturday, April 25.

After spending almost three weeks in hospital with serious head injuries, Mr Pemberton was released last week.

Madisons doorman Mark Igoe, 33, of Milton Grove, Warrington, is charged with two counts of wounding with intent to commit GBH in connection with the incident.

He is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear at Chester Crown Court on July 24, when he is expected to enter a plea.