Rain Nightclub Leaves Voluntary Agreement

Belfast nightclub Rain has decided against early closure and are going back to opening until 3am.

The nightclub, in Tomb street, has decided to leave a voluntary agreement to shut at 2am, following the death of Joby Murphy, who died after participating in a drinks promotion.

Colin Neil, Chief Executive of the Pubs of Ulster, said: "We would like to remind the industry that the agreement has the support and backing of the PSNI and therefore any decision by a licensee to remove themselves from it, will be brought to their attention.

"By demonstrating effective self-regulation and the industry's commitment to responsible practices, we hope to pave the way for modernising the current licensing laws in Northern Ireland.

"This will only happen however if the industry comes together on issues such as 2am closing."

(CD)