AN investigation into claims that thousands of pounds went missing in a club's lottery scratch card game has been dropped.

Police in York have been investigating allegations involving Fulfordgate Working Men's Club since last March, following a complaint by committee members.

But yesterday it was revealed that detectives have now dropped their inquiry because of lack of evidence.

"I can confirm that our investigation into Fulfordgate club has finished with no arrests being made. There was insufficient evidence," said a police spokesman.

The investigation centred around £6,000 that was apparently unaccounted for after an audit. It related to discrepancies with the club's Lottery King ticket machine over the past five years.

Club president Joe Bowker said: "The police have told us there was a lack of evidence so we just have to take their word for it. I'm pleased, but at the same time I would like to have seen it resolved. It's just a mystery."