THE fact that Panama Jacks has retained its licence should not go unnoticed, because the hearing into the Bridge Street bar has wider implications for the town.

There have long been concerns about what is happening to the town centre after dark.

Reports of brawls, fights and other anti-social behaviour come almost daily from police and ambulance crews.

And Thursday's hearing sends out a clear message: That landlords do have an important role in ensuring that our town centre is a safe and enjoyable place to come to at night.

If bars or pubs continue to step out of line, they will be punished - and rightly so.

The town centre needs to be somewhere for everyone with a mix of age groups.

It is surely no coincidence that revellers are increasingly taking their trade to Stockton Heath and Lymm rather than come into Warrington.

Making the town centre a more friendly and less threatening place to be is good for landlords, emergency services and residents alike.