A THEME bar hopes to lick the problem of noise from customers as they leave - by handing out lollipops.

Managers at Worcester's Chicago Rock Caf decided on the tropical-flavoured sweets to gag customers after people living nearby complained that people leaving the pub after 11pm created a disturbance.

Assistant manager Scott Oldfield said the idea, introduced two weeks ago, had led to a significant reduction in noise levels and been a hit with customers.

"They love it," he said. "Instead of waiting outside for one another, they all line up inside to pick up their lollipop. Then they go straight of home.

"We thought if we fill people's faces they wouldn't make so much noise, and it seems to be working. We tried to get candy dummies but couldn't get hold of any. We may try again later."

Mr Oldfield claimed the sweetener was not the only initiative to reduce the noise as people left.

The club is looking at redesigning its front door and has applied to Worcester City Council to extend its opening hours to 1am.

"At the moment, people leave at around 11pm and stand outside, discussing where to go next," he added.

"If we can open until 1am, people will stay to the end, instead of moving on. It would also mean they wouldn't have to leave at once.

"We're confident that, with these measures, we can combat the problem of noise."

City council licensing officer Julian Pugh confirmed the club had applied for extended hours.

"However, I'm aware there are problems with neighbours," he said. "The extension can't be granted until comments by the residents have been considered."

The bar hit the headlines three years ago, when the Evening News reported how rowdy customers were making life unbearable for elderly people living nearby.

Chicago Rock pledged to carry out after-hours patrols, install lighting and contribute towards CCTV after complaints that drinkers were urinating, screaming and having sex in nearby Nash Passage.