A Leysdown pub has had its licence suspended with immediate effect as part of an ongoing Kent Police operation to tackle crime and disorder.

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

Swale council’s licensing sub-committee ruled on Monday that the venue’s licence should be suspended with immediate effect.

This is an interim measure and means the public bar will remain closed until a full review hearing takes place in early August.

The premises have since provided police with CCTV and it will now be allowed to open for two pre-planned functions as long as it ensures three licensed security staff are present for the whole night.

The action was taken following a visit of 13 venues across the Isle of Sheppey last Thursday (July 13) by officers to check they were meeting the conditions of their alcohol licence.

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

The operation was run to remind licence-holders of their responsibilities ahead of the summer holidays.

Alcohol control zones in Sheerness and Leysdown will also be enforced throughout the summer.

Inspector Craig West from Kent Police’s Swale Community Safety Unit, said: "Anti-social behaviour caused by excess drinking is an unacceptable nuisance for people living in, and visiting, the Isle of Sheppey.

"That is why we are running this operation. We are taking proactive steps to ensure residents and young families coming to visit on holiday enjoy Sheppey, which will in turn help local businesses flourish.

"Most venues are compliant with the responsibilities placed on them by their licences and we are happy to work alongside them to ensure the Island is a safe place to live in and visit this summer.

"Should any issues arise we will work with our partners to use the full remit of our powers to take robust and proportionate action."