A group of five black partygoers who claim they were racially discriminated against by a nightclub doorman have settled their dispute.

The five took their case to the Human Rights Commission after they were asked to pay a $10 entrance fee before being allowed into Hamilton nightspot The Club on Bermudiana Road in July last year. The five maintained that white guests were allowed in free of charge.

Last night a spokesman for The Club confirmed a settlement had been reached.

But he declined to comment on reports that the five had received a total of $35,000 in compensation.

"The Club acknowledges that it was involved in an incident in July, 1998,'' the spokesman said. "This matter has now been resolved to the satisfaction of all those involved and a confidentiality agreement is in place. As a result, The Club is unable to comment but looks forward to ensuring it serves all its future customers to the highest standard.''