A team of lap dancers turned out at City Hall yesterday to hear councillors grant a year-long entertainment licence for their club.

Bradford Council's licensing committee approved an application by the city's only lap dancing club, Monroes.

The decision was made after members heard a report made by an undercover licensing officer who visited the club.

There was no opposition to the application.

The panel was shown photographs of the inside of the club, including booths where lap dances take place and a pole which the dancers dance around.

Members heard that the officer inspected the premises, without making himself known to management, to watch the operation of the club.

He was offered two dancers to dance for him, at a cost of £20, and accepted.

The officer reported that it was a "relaxed and friendly atmosphere".

Club owner Stevie told the panel the ages of the dancers ranged from 18 to 37 years old.

Six months ago Monroes became the first club in the district to obtain an entertainment licence, allowing lap dancing, from Bradford Council.

The panel relaxed a clause banning striptease to allow lap dancing for a trial six months.

Since then, Stevie and business partner Tony Harling have bought the club from its previous owner.

After yesterday's meeting Stevie was hugged and congratulated by lap dancers working for her.

She said: "I'm relieved and pleased that this has been allowed, without any opposition.

"I was expecting a much longer process, with more questions.

"The Council's investigations show we are operating a good business which is a success in Bradford."