Worksop: Patrons gasp for air and flee in panic during mystery gas attack on town centre pubs

Police are investigating after a mystery gas attack on two Worksop town centre pubs left choking patrons scrambling outside for air.
Corner House, Worksop.Corner House, Worksop.
Corner House, Worksop.

Officers were called just after 12.15am on Sunday 28th September to reports of the release of an unknown substance inside the Cornerhouse and Yates’ venues on Bridge Place.

Both venues were temporarily evacuated with Notts Police, Notts Fire and Rescue and East Midlands Ambulance Service all in attendance.

Some of the evacuated patrons suffered stinging eyes and difficulty with breathing, although police said ambulance crews treated only one woman at the scene for minor respiratory problems. The woman left the scene shortly afterwards and received no further medical attention.

Mark Churchill, owner of The Cornerhouse, said he was working with police to identify the culprits using CCTV footage.

Mr Churchill added: “There was no real reason behind this attack and it was completely irresponsible. Many nights were ruined and somebody could have been seriously harmed. It was dangerous.”

“We will be tightening up on security after the incident and may have to start searching customers on the door. It’s sad that it has come to that, but first and foremost we want to protect our customers.

Worksop residents took to social media to express their disgust after the attack.

Joanna Keeling wrote: “I was supposed to go to The Cornerhouse that night and I’m so glad I stayed in. I’m 22 weeks pregnant and hate to think of the damage the attack would have done to me and my unborn baby.”

Jessica Olivia, who was at The Cornerhouse with friends at the time of incident, posted: “It was awful. I felt like I couldn’t breathe and the gas made your eyes burn.”

Inspector Neil Bellamy, of Notts Police, said: “We are continuing our enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident as we try to identify those responsible.”

“Anyone with information is asked to call Notts Police on 101.”

Both Yates and The Cornerhouse are now open as normal.

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