A NIGHTCLUB owner has been charged with allowing his all-night dance venue to be used for supplying drugs following a police raid involving 200 officers.

Police became the first in the country to use groundbreaking new anti-social behaviour laws to close Monroe's all night dance club, in Wood Street, Great Harwood, at 3am yesterday.

Up to 200 people were searched, and owner Ian Jackson was one of seven people arrested on suspicion of offences, including possession of drugs, and possessing offensive weapons.

Officers seized several weapons including two samurai swords and CS gas canisters, and large quantities of drugs, including what is believed to be ecstasy, amphetamines and cannabis.

Jackson, 59, of Padiham Road, Sabden, was served with a closure of premises order under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003. The action is thought to be the first time the legislation has been used on commercial premises in this country.

He was also charged with allowing the premises to be used for the supply of class A drugs and being concerned in the management of entertainment without a licence. He was due to appear before Blackburn magistrates today.

Operation Escort involved officers from across Lancashire and dog patrols. It was the culmination of a series of planned raids around the club, which doesn't serve alcohol and has no drinks licence.

Last year 85 people were arrested and up to 1,600 searched during search operations carried out around the club over 10 weekends. Drugs and weapons seized at the time included hammers, eight baseball bats, knives, a 'tasar' gun, pick axe handles and a police baton.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Smith, who led yesterday's raid, said: "This operation and those carried out previously have been run in response to complaints from residents regarding late night activity around Monroes.

"We have previously tried to work with the owner of the club and our intention has always been to ensure the safety of those attending.

"The objective was to secure and preserve evidence to support a prosecution for offences committed by the management, employees and members of the club. We want to reassure the public that criminal activity associated with the club will not be, and has not been, tolerated."

Hyndburn MP Greg Pope said: "I'm delighted the police have taken robust action and they have my full support."

l A 17-year-old youth has been released without charge; two 19-year-old women have been cautioned for possession of offensive weapons; a man has been charged with an offence under the Road Traffic Act, and bailed; a 19-year-old man was released on police bail pending further inquiries for possession of drugs; a youth is being held on suspicion of robbery.