A Darlington pub has had its licence suspended for six weeks
A Darlington pub’s licence has been suspended after its management was criticised following a brawl.
The Highland Laddie pub at Haughton Green will be closed for six weeks after bar stools and chairs were used in a fight.
Durham Constabulary criticised the lack of control from those in charge of the pub during and after the incident on September 16, and said its investigation has been frustrated by a lack of cooperation from staff.
CCTV footage viewed by the police shows various items including a parasol holder, bar stools and chairs were used as weapons by the people involved in the incident. Several injuries were reported.
A police report added: “Pub furniture and a glass are used as weapons throughout this incident, and it is sheer good luck that everyone was able to walk away from this and no one was knocked unconscious or even killed.”
The hearing was told that staff working at the time of the incident did not phone the police until several minutes after it had started.
Steven Heseltine, the premises licence holder, said all the people involved in the incident have been barred. Previous damage to furniture and several windows has been repaired, the hearing was told.
Mr Heeltine said he has only experienced a “handful” of incidents in the nine years he has been in charge of the pub, but councillors questioned the lack of staff training. As part of a pub’s licence, all records and training must be up to date.
He added: “There’s no excuse; it just wasn’t done. I have learnt my lesson. Following the incident, I have put staff training and an incident book in place.”
Darlington Borough Council’s licensing committee supported the police’s application to immediately suspend the pub’s licence. A full licence review hearing is due to be held later this year.
Councillor Sonia Kane, licensing committee chairwoman, said: “We have decided to suspend the licence for six weeks. In that time, you must ensure proper training for staff and health and safety. You must make sure that all documentation is kept up to date.
“In addition, you will be subject to a minimum of three random checks to ensure you are compliant with safety.”
Durham Constabulary confirmed the investigation is ongoing and suspects are being sought.