Insurers who cover pubs and clubs could be hit with a rise in the number of employers' liability (EL) and public liability (PL) claims, according to Allianz Cornhill Legal Protection.

The insurer said landlords were failing to recognise the risks inherent in extended opening hours.

It said that attracting quality staff, upholding European working time regulations, added security and refusing to serve intoxicated drinkers would all need to be considered if pubs and clubs were to avoid potential claims.

David Vine, business development manager at Allianz Cornhill Legal Protection, said: "It is clear that some in the pubs and clubs trade will not have given enough thought to the pitfalls of staying open for longer."

He added: "We are unlikely to see a real hike in premiums and most of the existing policies are adequate. However, risk management is crucial."

Vine suggested it would fall on brokers and insurers to advise premises on the steps that should be taken to mitigate any potential rise in the number of claims.