Halloween

Killer clowns: Plymouth pubs urged to ban costumes

By Helen Gilbert

- Last updated on GMT

Killer clowns: should licensees ban them?
Killer clowns: should licensees ban them?
Pubs and clubs in Plymouth are being urged to ban customers wearing killer clown costumes this Halloween.

Plymouth Pubwatch chairman Richard Smith, who issued the guidance to 40 venues within the scheme, told The Morning Advertiser​ it would be "too risky" to let those dressed in such attire onto premises and warned that anyone brandishing plastic swords or replica weapons could find themselves restrained by police. 

“For the Halloween weekend, we are advising all Plymouth Pubwatch sites not to allow killer clown costumes into licensed premises for the protection of all guests, staff and management,” the guidance stated. “I would ask you liaise with your door teams and advise.”

His comments come off the back of the ‘killer clown’ craze that has swept the UK and involves masked pranksters dressing as clowns in a bid to frighten innocent bystanders.

Smith added that if anyone entered a pub wearing a killer clown costume, the police would likely have to have to ‘pat them down’ to make sure they weren’t carrying any weapons.

“It’s easier to say we don’t want this to happen this weekend,” Smith insisted. “It’s safer for everyone.”

The Three Colts in Princes Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, has implemented a ban on patrons wearing fancy dress including killer clown costumes this weekend and declared the pub a "Halloween-free zone".

“I think it’s ridiculous that grown adults are acting like that,” publican Adam Brooks said.

“I’m not allowing any Halloween outfits this year. I don’t think it suits a traditional pub.” 

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