Burnley licensees in fear of more violence

Licensees in Burnley are living in fear of further violence after five pubs were attacked and the licensees at one were forced to flee when it was petrol-bombed.

Racist riots in the Lancashire town saw disturbing violence cumulate between gangs of white and Asian youths with both Asians and whites seriously wounded and houses, businesses and vehicles destroyed.

The Duke of York pub (pictured)​ was petrol bombed, because it was thought to be a meeting place for white racists, a spokesman for Burnley Police said.

The licensee of The Baltic Fleet Hotel, Alan McNivity, said that he had been told by the police to board up the windows of his pub because the police had received information that he could be the next person to be targeted.

Mr McNivity said: "I have lost a lot of business and I'm scared that we could be the next target.

"The Wheatsheaf, the Dragoon and the Danes House Working Men's club have all had their windows put through."

Police said that although there was currently no violence (June 27) they were expecting more outbreaks in the town overnight.