BRIGHTON’S bars and clubs are a huge boost to the town and have helped build its reputation as a place to party.

But that rests hugely on responsible club owners, doormen and staff who have proper regard for their customers’ safety.

Police are calling for a town centre bar to have its licence suspended after being called there more than 20 times since last June.

A young woman raped after leaving and a man slamming his girlfriend’s head into a table are among the crimes linked to Oxygen bar in West Street.

The bar’s alleged failure to act responsibly is not only a huge drain on police resources but also puts customers at risk and drags down the reputation of the city.

Clearly party-goers have to take responsibility for safety, yet bars must also do their bit to manage the volatile effects of huge amounts of alcohol.

Most do, of course, and a huge amount of work is done by security staff and barmen to keep people safe.

Many go above and beyond what you would expect – checking who women are leaving with and helping them stay in touch with friends, for example.

For any others, we would hope the action taken by Sussex Police is a warning.