Police were called out to a bar in Bolton town centre last night, following reports that it was continuing to trade, despite government restrictions.
Officers confirmed they attended The Courthouse Restaurant and Bar in Mawdsley Street, at around 10.15pm, and that officers dispersed a group of people congregated nearby.
The owner of the venue told the MEN a member of staff and two others let themselves into the bar for a drink but stressed that there was "no trade whatsoever".
Following an internal investigation, he has 'released' a member of staff.
The owner said: "There were three people inside the venue and there was no trade whatsoever. They didn't even have access to the office for tills.
"We don't condone the behaviour and we've taken it really seriously. Relevant disciplinary action has been taken and a member of staff has been released from the business.
"We don't want to be seen as allowing that. We're just an independent, small business and things like this are massive to us.
"I really want to express that the business is extremely sorry for the actions of the former employee and does not, now nor ever, condone this type of behaviour."
A video taken from outside the venue last night appears to show the lights on inside the venue and music being played.
A witness claimed that people were inside the venue from around 7pm.
"They've risked lives of the people there and those they go home to," the witness said.
"It's a disgrace."
