Nightspot to scan clubbers in safety bid

A SOMERSET nightclub has started scanning all its customers to try to make it a safer place to enjoy a night out.

The Lost Circus (TLC) in Bridgwater introduced the initiative where pictures are taken of all people entering the nightclub.

Clubbers are also asked to provide ID which is also scanned and held on an online cloud system. The details are stored along with the club’s CCTV for 36 days.

All the information is held securely and accessed only by the club’s data controller. It is understood that TLC is the first club in Somerset to introduce such security measures.

The scheme was introduced to improve safety and security at the High Street nightspot.

Club owner Paul Stoodley, who also owns The Queens Shilling in Bristol, said: “When people come in they are asked for ID which is put on the system.

“A picture is also taken of their face. The whole idea of the scheme is to improve security and make TLC a safer space for everyone who visits.

“It means that if there is an incident we have the details of everyone who is in the club at the time. Along with the CCTV this will be able to help us identify those involved.”

The data collected will also be used to indicate any issues with potentially troublesome customers.

“The scheme allows us to flag people so the next time they want to come in we can take steps, like barring entry,” added Mr Stoodley.

“It’s a proactive approach to keeping the club as a safe space. All data will be deleted after being held for 36 days.”

The club, formerly Remedies bar, opens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.