A café has been shut down in Balham for running a nightclub illegally.

Café Chic in Balham High Road was operating as a late night party venue without a licence to sell alcohol or provide public entertainment.

Wandsworth Council and the police were alerted to the situation after numerous noise complaints from neighbours.

Police ordered the closure on Monday July 24, which was granted for three months at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court the following day.

Community safety spokesman Councillor Jonathan Cook said: “The closure of this unlicensed venue will be greeted with a huge sigh relief by neighbours who had to endure unacceptable levels of noise nuisance and disturbance.”

Anyone found in the building during the closure period without reasonable excuse could be sent to prison or face a fine.

The defendant was not present in the court.