Pub that destroyed crime scene allowed to stay open

Staff at GW Horners were criticised by police

A pub where staff were accused by police of destroying a crime scene after an assault has been allowed to stay open.

Staff at GW Horners in Chester-le-Street were criticised by Durham Constabulary for their response and handling of the attack on April 15.

Paramedics were called after a man was left with a bleed on the brain, along with a fractured skull and cheekbone.

Pub staff then "destroyed" the crime scene when a manager mopped the floor and did not phone the police, an earlier hearing was told.

The incident was reported to the police six days later by the victim’s sister.

"If staff had looked at the CCTV at the time, they would have seen that this was an assault and not an accident or medical incident," Sgt Caroline Dickenson, of Durham Constabulary, said.

The pub was cleared to remain open at a licensing review on Monday after making improvements since the attack, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The hearing heard that an upgraded CCTV system has been installed and a new Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS) has also been appointed.

Sgt Dickenson said the force was satisfied with the changes.

“We’ve worked closely with the licensee, and they’ve been fully on board with ourselves and suggested conditions, which they’ve adhered to,” she told the hearing.

Cameras have also been installed in the toilets, where the attack occurred.

Durham County councillor David Brown, chair of the licensing committee, ruled the pub could remain open.

“We’re very happy to see the progress that’s been made,” he said.