'Life-threatening violence' forces closure order for Selby pub
A disturbance in which a Selby pub-goer was left with 'life-threatening' injuries has prompted a town centre bars temporary closure.
Selby
Violence at JT Mellanbys on Finkle Street, on April 1st, lead to the man being taken to Hull Royal Infirmary for treatment where he is understood to still be in a critical condition.
Following the fracas an order has been issued to suspend the town centre pub's licence pending a full review. This means that the police will be able to enforce the pubs closure until at least April 30th.
The action was taken last night by members of a special Selby District Council licencing committee following representations by North Yorkshire Police.
Inspector Michelle Falkingham said, “Our prime concern is the safety of members of the public and following the incident on 1 April and concerns about the management of the pub, we felt that an immediate closure was necessary to ensure the safety of members of the public.
“Selby District Council’s Licensing Hearings Sub Committee shared our concerns and granted the immediate temporary closure of the premises.
“Members of the public should be able to enjoy a night out in safety and if we feel that their safety is compromised, we will not hesitate to take action.”
A spokesman for Selby District Council added: “The sub committee decided they had no confidence in the ability of the management of the premises in light of the evidence presented. The incident had failed to be dealt with and managed in a manner that would reasonably be expected of a responsible manager of licensed premises.
“The licence holder had also not ensured that there were safe systems or adequate staff and equipment in order to promote the licensing objectives. In addition to this the Sub Committee noted a previous licensing review and other incidents that had occurred. The suspension will take immediate effect and arrangements are now being made for the full review hearing which must take place within 28 days.”
A 24-year-old Castleford man has been charged with affray and wounding with intent in relation to the disturbance. He has been remanded into custody after appearing before Magistrates in York last Friday.
Two other men, one aged 45 from Blackburn and one aged 32 from Bootle were also arrested and remain on police bail while enquiries continue.