A NIGHTCLUB which was shunned by revellers after a teenager was allegedly attacked shortly before his death is to reopen

Churchills, in Cannon Street, Accrington, will be open again on Friday with former manager Angela Calvert at the helm after buying the lease from the owners.

The club was the scene of an incident that led to the death of 18-year-old Gavin Tattersall, of Cambridge Drive, Padiham, in May.

Last month it closed because of a drop in business but Ms Calvert said she felt there was enough demand to reopen the venue.

The club will operate from 10pm to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays with a smart but casual dress code, although no sportswear will be allowed. If it is a success, Sunday night opening will be added.

There will also be a children's disco from 7pm to 10pm on Thursdays.

"I have taken the lease on. I'm going to change the format they had but they have made me an offer too good to refuse," said Ms Calvert

"I have taken a chance and I am going to open on Friday. At the moment I'm going to have to keep the name because I want to get it up and running.

"From speaking to people since the club shut, I definitely think the market is out there for Churchills. It was a deal I couldn't walk away from. I'm going to start from scratch."

The club will offer free entry before 11pm, with a £2 charge after that time, with drinks paid for at the bar. The previous policy was to charge £12 on the door and offer inclusive drinks.

Doorman Ian Britcliffe, 42, of John Streert, Clayton-le-Moors, and his son Christopher Britcliffe, 21, also of John Street, have been charged with murdering Mr Tattersall and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Another doorman, Kenneth Halstead, 41, of South View, Haslingden, is charged with wounding Mr Tattersall with intent to cause him grievous bodily harm.

The three are set to appear at Preston Crown Court on Monday.