17 April 2008: On Friday 11 April, Michael Wilson, Chief Executive of the Security Industry Authority (SIA) continued a series of visits to security sites throughout the country - with a tour of the popular nightspots in Lancaster.

Mike was invited by Peter Harrison, Managing Director of FGH Security Ltd, to meet members of FGH staff, including the door supervisors he deploys at licensed premises in the area.

Mike spoke with the FGH Security Business Director, Wesley Downham as well as door staff and managers at popular venues such as Revolution, Walkabout, the Litten Tree and Vue cinema. Mike wanted to learn more about the issues they face and to gain a greater understanding of how licensing affects those on the front line.

Mike and Peter were accompanied by Inspector Steve Anderton of Lancashire Constabulary.

After the visit, Mike said:

"It was extremely useful to see first hand how a good firm like FGH Security can make a real difference in providing a safe and pleasant environment for the public. I was very impressed by the quality of door supervisors, amongst whom are graduates and even a PhD! It was very encouraging to hear from door staff, licensed premises managers and police saying SIA regulation had helped to transform the night time scene in Lancaster for the better."

Peter Harrison said:

"It was good to spend the evening with Mike who was most informative. I feel that our strong partnership with the SIA, Lancashire Police and our other stakeholders has helped ensure the people of Lancaster can enjoy a much safer night out than in years gone by. Our door supervisors do a fantastic job at all hours of the night. We continue to provide extensive training and support to our staff wherever possible and the quality processes we have in put in place over the past five years help ensure our customers and the general public are happier than ever with our service."

Inspector Steve Anderton said:

"Having professional licensed door staff who can work with us when the need arises, really helps to keep crime down in this area."

Notes to Editors:

• The SIA is responsible for regulating the private security industry in Great Britain; we license individuals undertaking designated activities within the private security industry and manage the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme, which measures private security suppliers against independently assessed standards.
• Electronic images are available from Jessica Clinkett, SIA Media Relations Officer.
• FGH Security is an SIA approved contractor employing over 150 SIA licensed security operatives; it operates across the Northwest of the UK.
• Since October 2004, all door supervisors working in Lancaster have been legally required to hold SIA licences to work in licensed premises.