A club owner is calling for action to improve safety in the area of Cedar Avenue following two violent incidents in the area in the past month.

Leopard's Club owner Bruce Simons spoke out yesterday about the need to improve the lighting along the stretch of Cedar between Victoria and Dundonald Streets.

The area is frequented by both tourists and criminal elements, Mr. Simons said yesterday, and he fears crime will increase if the night visibility is not improved.

On Saturday morning a 33-year-old man was stabbed in the abdomen in the area located behind the Hamilton bus station.

And Police are currently investigating the death of 47-year-old Harry Palmer, who was found there last month after suffering fatal internal injuries.

Mr. Simons said the area is so dark that those inside the club cannot see the other side of the street at night and he fears for the safety of his patrons and tenants as well as the general public.

"The streets are so dark that it's bringing crime into the area," Mr. Simons said. Both Mr. Simons and his wife Margo have been trying to have the lighting shortage addressed for months, but although a pole was erected for an additional streetlight last year, the light has yet to be installed.

Mr. Simons said the couple have been told it is the responsibility of Belco but the company has been unable to get to the work.

"There are horse and buggies coming by this street every night and many tourists come to Victoria Park for the concerts at night," he added. "It is so dark someone could easily be waiting to hit someone on the head or throw them over the wall."

He added: "Belco should be taking responsibility."

Last night Belco spokesperson Linda Smith said she was not familiar with the situation on the street but would look into the matter as soon as possible.