Clashes force Belfast's Odyssey bars to close early

Odyssey complex, Belfast Trouble flared in the area around Belfast's Odyssey complex

Rioting soccer fans have forced night clubs at Belfast's Odyssey complex to close early at weekends.

The move came after police arrested nine people at the complex on Sunday during clashes between supporters of Glasgow Rangers and Glasgow Celtic.

The trouble flared following an Old Firm game earlier that day.

Club owners at the Odyssey have agreed to close at 2200 GMT for the next two Sundays, review cheap drink promotions and tighten up admission checks.
'Public disorder'

The agreement was reached at a meeting between police and the Odyssey's management on Tuesday.

A police spokesperson said it was stressed at the meeting that "concerted efforts would have to be made by all parties, including licensed premises to ensure public disorder was avoided".

"It was suggested that a voluntary reduction of trading hours on a Sunday night, reviewing alcohol promotions currently being run on a Sunday night and looking at door supervisory practices were aspects that could be altered to create a safer environment," the spokesperson said.

"It was suggested that a voluntary reduction of trading hours on a Sunday night, reviewing alcohol promotions currently being run on a Sunday night and looking at door supervisory practices were aspects that could be altered to create a safer environment."