A BOLTON social club has been rocked by new claims of missing money, just months after a large sum of cash allegedly disappeared.

In February police were called in to investigate accusations that a "substantial" amount of money had disappeared from Breightmet Labour Club's coffers.

Club steward Jim Smith was suspended on full pay, prompting a strike by bar staff in his support.

Mr Smith has since been totally cleared and is taking legal action for unfair dismissal.

Auditors and accountants found discrepancies of £17,623 in balance books at the Milnthorpe Road club which boasts an annual income of nearly £640,000.

Bolton police confirmed that investigations had been completed and no-one was to be charged.

But club officials have already spoken with detectives about new allegations of missing money. A police spokesman confirmed that a club committee member had spoken with them about the fresh allegations.

And the club's president John Hayston told the BEN: "It has been mentioned to the police but there's nothing formally been done yet.

"We just know a detective is supposed to be coming up to see us. It's just an inquiry which we have set in motion. We're just going from the treasurer's report that there's something amiss."

Relief steward Phil Dwyer has been suspended from his duties.

Speaking at his home in Chaucer Street, Halliwell, Mr Dwyer said he had been suspended last Monday.

He added: "Since then I have not spoken to anyone from the club. I have spoken to the same solicitor as Jim Smith dealt with and I have passed on all the information.

"I'm not bothered one bit, I have no need to be concerned. But it is upsetting to be barred from a club where you have made all your friends."

Shocked club members have been left reeling following news of the latest alleged cash riddle.

One man who drinks at the club said: "I have been using the club for years and I can't believe what's going on. "The place is like a morgue since all of this started. There's nowhere near as many people using the club. People are drinking elsewhere."

Former steward Mr Smith, 44, of Breightmet Drive, Breightmet, said that he is seeking compensation at an industrial tribunal for unfair dismissal.

He added: "I'm just glad that it is all over and that my name has been cleared. That is the most important thing for me. I have still got to speak to my solicitor about any future action."

And if his legal claim proves successful it could mean further money worries for the social club.

Breightmet Labour Club's secretary Derek Hamer said: "If we're forced to pay out a lot of money we would be in serious trouble."

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