A Wild night for Ultimate Leisure

Night-clubbers in the North East now have the chance to ride a bucking bronco thanks to a Rodeo bar from operator Ultimate Leisure.

The group is testing its new "Coyote Wild" club concept in South Shields. It features a simulated bronco machine that retracts into the ceiling above.

"We have some fun concepts and this is another," said managing director Bob Senior. "Our business is all about fun and entertainment and we are continually exploring new ways of giving our customers what they want."

The bronco can be readied for action in 30 seconds, said Mr Senior.

The late-night operator is also plotting further expansion in Ireland. It has already secured one site, in the Belfast leisure complex called Odyssey.

Mr Senior said the company was interested in other venues, both in Dublin and Belfast. "Belfast and Newcastle, where we have 13 venues, are very similar," said Mr Senior.

"Newcastle used to have a lot of industry - coal mines, ship building and engineering - most of it has gone. The public have experienced adversity. Clearly people have also experienced adversity in Belfast too."

Meanwhile, last week the company moved to ease investors fears, following the troubles experienced by other high street operators.

Speaking at its AGM, chairman Jon Pither said: "Ultimate Leisure operates, in the main, freehold sites in prime positions on established drinking circuits.

"This protects the group from high fixed rental costs and increases, whilst ensuring there is a constant flow of customers in and around the outlets."