DEVIZES Town Council has changed its mind about employing fewer security staff at its discos at the Corn Exchange after the promoter and bar manager said it would be dangerous.

The council's recreation and properties committee agreed a month ago to reduce the number of security staff to four on a trial basis of three months.

The council previously had six security staff but was only charged for five by the promoter Ian James.

The committee decided to reduce the number after being told the minimum the council needed to have to comply with its licence was three.

Mr James and bar franchisee Stanley Kelman wrote to the council saying they were concerned.

Mr James said: "After consultation with all staff at the Exchange nightclub we all agree that to reduce the amount of security staff is a danger not only to the staff but to customers as well."

Mr Kelman said: "With a team of five on duty we've had very little disturbance. However, reducing the numbers may cause a delay and any disturbance or emergency could spiral out of control due to the time it takes to manage the situation."

Councillor Peter Smith said: "To decrease the number would be potentially dangerous."

Mr Kelman has recently launched youth discos at the Corn Exchange on Friday nights for 12- to 14-year-olds. Only soft drinks are available.