THE licensees of West Watford Conservative Club have hit back at allegations of violence and criminal damage at their premises in Harwood Road.

Mr John Harrington, 39, and his wife Karrina, 42, who have managed the club for 11 years, claim they are the victims of persistent vandalism, harassment and criminal behaviour.

Police are investigating the club after receiving complaints from residents and the leader of Watford Labour Group Andy Head.

However, the proprietors, who live in Harwoods Road, believe recent complaints to police against the club may have been racially and politically motivated.

Mr Harrington said: "The area we live in has deteriorated over the last ten years.

"You have only got to look outside to see the graffiti.

"We have suffered damage to the club, had graffiti sprayed on our walls and been broken into over the last few weeks.

"There have been a couple of occasions where members have been attacked as they leave.

"There are all different cultures living here but we have got to live together."

He estimated £5,000 worth of damage, including a £2,000 door security system ripped from the entrance wall, had been committed on the club over the past two years.

He listed offences such as vandals urinating through the letter box, spitting on the windows, breaking into member's cars and slashing their tyres.

The couple have taken a host of security measures, such as installing a burglar alarm, shatterproof windows and front door railings, which have since been prised off.

July 4, 2002 15:30