A NIGHTCLUB boss has been suspended following an allegation over a racially derogatory remark.

Darren Rowley, general manager of Jumpin Jaks, Blackburn, has been suspended by owners Luminar Leisure Plc, pending the result of an inquiry.

The club had to shut for a night last month when 13 doormen walked out following a disagreement.

Police were called to the St Peter Street club on March 21 when more than 200 clubbers were asked to leave after the security staff walked out.

The doormen said they had walked out on "principle."

Luminar Leisure said a full and thorough investigation was set to take place with the "establishment of a just conclusion paramount."

A spokesman said company wholeheartedly supported the principle of equal opportunities for all its customers.

A representative of the doormen who walked out said they had sought advice from the Racial Equality Council.

A spokesman for Luminar Leisure said: "An allegation had been made that a manager had made a racially derogatory remark.

"A full and thorough investigation, in line with company procedures, is currently under way. It is anticipated that, once all the evidence has been established, a conclusion will be reached soon.

"The establishment of a just conclusion is paramount.

"In line with company policy, a manager is currently suspended from duty pending the result of the enquiry.

"The staff and management of Jumpin Jaks in Blackburn are committed to offering quality entertainment in a friendly atmosphere and safe environment. The company is an equal opportunities employer and wholeheartedly supports the principle of equal opportunities for all its customers.

"Any unlawful or unfair discrimination on the grounds of race, nationality, ethnic or cultural origin, sex, marital status or disability is completely opposed, whatever the circumstances."

The spokesman added that the door steward supervisors breached their contractual responsibilities when they walked out.

Nasser Khan of Cliff Street, Rishton, who was one of the doormen who walked out, said he had been in touch with the Blackburn with Darwen Racial Equality Council.

A spokesman for the council said: "The company has taken the action of suspending the manager and should take statements from everybody concerned."