A second Leysdown pub has had its licence suspended, after police became involved when violence flared outside.

Merlins was closed by Swale council’s licensing sub-committee on Monday with immediate effect following a complaint by police.

The application was made after the venue failed to provide officers with CCTV footage of an assault which took place outside its premises in Leysdown Road on July 9.

The owners have since produced the video.

The Talk of the Town pub on the promenade was also temporarily closed by police following a brawl in April but is now open again.

Merlins’ bar must remain closed until a full review early next month, although special permission has been given to allow the hall to open for two pre-planned functions as long as three licensed security staff are present.

The action was taken following a check on 13 venues across Sheppey by police to ensure venues were meeting their licence conditions.

Officers from Swale council, the Security Industry Association and Kent Fire and Rescue Service also took part in the raids.

Police are also enforcing the Island’s alcohol-control zones in Sheerness and Leysdown as part of a major crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

Inspector Craig West, from the Swale Community Safety Unit, said: “We are running this operation because anti-social behaviour caused by excess drinking is an unacceptable nuisance for people living on or visiting the Isle of Sheppey.

“We are taking proactive steps to ensure residents and young families on holiday enjoy their visit which will, in turn, help local businesses flourish.

“Most venues are compliant with their responsibilities and we are happy to work alongside them to ensure Sheppey is a safe place to live and visit.”

But he warned: “Should any issues arise, we will work with our partners to use the full remit of our powers to take robust and proportionate action.”

Chris Prime, who owns the Talk of the Town, said: “The good thing to come out of our own troubles has been an increased police presence in Leysdown.

"We haven’t had this kind of presence for years.”

Merlins declined to comment when approached by our sister paper the Sheerness Times Guardian.