A MIDDLESBROUGH nightclub temporarily shut down following an alleged knife attack is "as much a part of this town as the Transporter Bridge and the chicken parmo" lawyers for the owners have stated.

Club Bongo International was closed earlier this week following a serious assault on a father-of-two on Sunday, October 27.

Simon Catterall, of Jacksons Law Firm which is acting on behalf of the nightspot’s owners, said: “Club Bongo International has been around for over 50 years. It is an extremely well known and popular venue and as much a part of this town as the Transporter Bridge and the chicken parmo.

“The management have already gone to great lengths to make the premises a safe environment for our customers and we are determined to keep it that way.

"The management will not tolerate troublemakers and we are working closely with the police to enhance security within the building. We expect the club to reopen shortly.”

The decision to suspend the licence was taken at a meeting of Middlesbrough Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee this week after an application by Cleveland Police.

A spokesman for Middlesbrough Council, said: “The suspension follows a serious assault which took place on the premises in the early hours of Sunday, October 27, which left the victim with serious injuries.

“The licence will remain suspended pending a full review hearing due to be held later this month.”

According to police, the victim was bitten, slashed and stamped on in the attack in the West Bridge Street club.

A man was arrested on suspicion of assault and released on bail.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call the Cleveland Police non emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.