A POPULAR nightspot attracted clubbers from miles around as drugs were readily available, a jury was told.

Lancashire Police targeted Monroe's, Great Harwood, with overt and covert operations, culminating in a search last February.

And it is alleged owner Anthony Ian Jackson had clear knowledge of the illegal drug-related activities alleged to have been taking place on the premises.

Jackson, 60, of Padiham Road, Sabden, is on trial at Preston Crown Court where he denies five charges.

He is accused of being concerned in the supply of MDMA - also known as Ecstasy - and cocaine, as well as three charges of permitting the premises to be used for drug supplying.

The allegations cover the period between December 14 2002 and February 15 2004.

The defendant had been the owner, proprietor and manager of Monroe's since 1988, the court was told. The club was only open on Saturday nights and in 1991 the liquor and public entertainment licenses were revoked.

The premises closed for a period before re-opening in 1993 as a private 'members only' club. No alcohol was served and so no liquor license was needed.

Mr Tim Brennand, prosecuting, told the jury in his opening address: "The Crown's case is simple and straightforward - the defendant benefited from being concerned in the supply of drugs and in permitting his premises to be used for the offer of supply or supply of these drugs.

"The effect was that this made the venue more attractive to club-goers of a certain disposition and liking for recreational drug consumption.

"Putting it bluntly, it gave people a reason to travel to a small town in Lancashire, in the middle of nowhere, to a hovel of a club."

A 14-year-old girl is said to have collapsed on the premises from a drug overdose and, in December 2002, Lancashire Police began a series of investigations under the codename Operation Escort.

Ten operations were carried during the time it was open on a Saturday night, with people either travelling to or away from the club stopped and searched.

Over 1,500 people were quizzed - with 85 arrested by officers for being in possession of drugs or offensive weapons.

The prosecution also claims undercover police in the club were offered and supplied drugs.

Proceeding