POLICE have applied to a court to have a nightclub's licence revoked following the death of a clubber.

James Elliott, 25, was found near the Libertys nightclub in Newhaven in the early hours of April 30 after leaving the club via the back door.

The father-of-one was taken to hospital but died the following day.

Mr Elliott, who lived with his parents Chris and Sue Elliott in Seaview Road, Newhaven, described their son as a gentle and quiet young man who was happy in the company of friends and family.

Police are investigating the events surrounding Mr Elliott's death and the nightclub has agreed to remain closed.

On Thursday, police from the Lewes district served a notice of application for a revocation of licence on the joint licensees of the Libertys nightclub.

This means the licence could be withdrawn permanently and the club closed indefinitely.

Sussex Police have said the application for a revocation of the licence is in relation to a build-up of incidents which have occurred over a period of time "culminating in the tragic events of the weekend of April 29, which are being investigated by the major crime branch".

District commander Chief Inspector Bob Gough, said: "Lewes district is a safe district and we will do everything within our powers to make it even safer so people can enjoy themselves without the fear of anti-social behaviour."

Jo Lewry, Lewes District Councillor for Newhaven and Denton welcomed the move by police.

She said: "I've had concerns about the goings-on there for some time. I was very upset to hear of the death of the youngster and this is the best way forward."

"We do not want a place to remain open if these incidents are going to continue until they have been sorted out."

A 21-year-old man arrested in connection with the death has been bailed.

The owners of Libertys were unavailable for comment