THE UK’s largest nightclub operator, the Luminar Group – which runs prominent Bournemouth club Cameo – has announced a 50 per cent rise in profits.

The rise comes less than three years after the firm was sold after going into administration.

The company employs 2,000 people and runs 53 clubs across the country. It made a pre-tax profit of £3.4million.

Cameo – previously called Lava and Ignite – is estimated to be worth £1million a year to the local economy.

The firm’s regional director for the Ged Gorrie said: “The strategy we adopted on acquisition of the business continues to deliver and we are pleased with the consistent progress we are making.

“Our trading position continues to strengthen as the effects of investment in our estate and our people, together with a robust focus on cost control, improve profitability.”