Chris Lee was removed as "designated premises supervisor" of the King George IV in Towngate, Leyland, after 15 years at the helm.

South Ribble Council's licensing committee made the ruling after police called for a review following a number of incidents at the pub, including allegations of assault and theft.

Licensing officer Sgt Tony Bushell told the hearing at Leyland Civic Centre: "The number of incidents is much higher than other premises. It is the worst in the Leyland area and the problems have escalated in the last 12 months."

Sgt Janette Bashall said police had been called to a number of incidents, including a fight on January 19.

She also said bar staff twice had to be told to turn down loud music on February 18.

The pub was now a magnet for late night Friday drinking, she said, as the management were "not being as choosy as they should be" and serving drunk people.

But John Coen, representing Punch Taverns, said the pub "was not as bad as had been suggested". He also said it would comply with "necessary" requirements to install CCTV and door staff.

At the end of the hearing councillors ruled the pub could stay open if it complied with strict new conditions. There will be no admission after midnight over weekends and customers cannot take drinks away in open containers.

Mr Lee's wife Tracey will be the new licensee.

Committee chairman Coun Phil Smith warned Punch to take a "more pro-active approach" in managing its pubs in the area, adding: "It is not just down to the designated premises supervisor."

Mr Lee described the decision as "an excellent result", adding: "We made changes with the DJ on Friday night and since we have done that, there has been no problems. We have been making less money, but it's worth it for less trouble."