Off-duty police officers are regularly causing trouble at a York nightclub, a constable claimed today.

The startling revelation comes as The Gallery, in Clifford Street, prepares to make a formal complaint after two female police officers were detained at the venue for allegedly taking drugs.

It is understood it is not the first time off-duty officers have caused problems at the club.

York police licensing officer Arthur Swaine told the Evening Press that doorstaff at The Gallery had recently raised concerns about the conduct of off-duty officers from other police forces visiting the club.

He said: "They complained that they had had difficulties with off-duty police officers being problematic by trying to gain entry to the premises, some well in drink, and asked us what they should do about it.

"We told them to treat them exactly as they would other customers.

"We are extremely satisfied with the way doorstaff at The Gallery deal with incidents. They work to a very professional standard."

David Harrison, manager of The Gallery, said officers from other counties had sometimes threatened to "have the club closed down" unless they were allowed in for the night.

Mr Harrison said: "They think they have a God-given right to come in because they are police officers. They flash their warrant card hoping to muscle in."

Today's revelation comes as police confirmed an investigation may take place into the conduct of two female police officers who were detained at the club on Wednesday night under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Mr Harrison alleged that the pair were overheard by an assistant manager discussing the sale of "good stuff" for £20 and seen putting something into their mouths. When challenged, he claimed they were aggressive towards his staff.

The management called the police and the two officers, a PC from Skipton and a PC from Lancashire, were detained. They were taken to York Police Station where they were searched, but nothing was found and they were released without charge.

Mr Harrison said today he planned to take the matter further: "We will be making a formal complaint."

Neither officer has been suspended.

A spokeswoman for Lancashire Police said: "It is wait-and-see. We need to see if the nightclub makes a complaint.''

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