Attacked again, but thug goes free
A licensee has been left "disillusioned" with police after twice being attacked by thugs who never appeared before court.
Andrew Goodall's case comes as National Pubwatch's Court Not Caution campaign — arguing that anyone who attacks licensees or pub staff must face court — gains momentum.
Earlier this month Goodall, of Timothy Taylor's managed pub the Ferrands Arms in Bingley, West Yorkshire, tried to eject a man who had headbutted two girls.
"He lunged forward to headbutt me. Luckily I wasn't very injured, I was given a cut lip," said the licensee.
"We gave a statement, but the police said, 'Sorry, we've decided not to pursue him'. It's frustrating to know this guy has got away with it."
About two years ago, when Goodall was host of the Shepherds Arms in Colne, Lancashire, a girl who smashed a glass on the back of his head was given a caution as it was her first offence.
The attack was caught on CCTV and there were four witnesses. "It slashed the back of my head open," said Goodall. "If I had turned around it would have been horrendous. I was disillusioned. I dread to think of the consequences if people think they can get away with things like this. I expect a lot more from the police."
In relation to the incident at the Ferrands Arms, a West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: "A 25-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of assault and questioned in custody by officers. After a review of evidence and consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, he was released without charge."
Flood of support for campaign
MPs and the public have flocked to support Court Not Caution.
To date, 36 MPs have signed the Early Day Motion petition, from National Pubwatch president Nigel Evans MP, that is backing the aims.
Meanwhile, nearly 300 people have signed the online petition to Gordon Brown and the campaign's Facebook group has 173 members to date.
National Pubwatch wants MA readers to help as part of the Court Not Caution campaign. Readers should get in touch if they or a member of pub or doorstaff has been attacked and the yob has been let off with a caution or a fixed penalty notice by emailing cnhy.jbggba@ogpbaarpg.pbz.
• Sign the 10 Downing Street petition by clicking here.
• Join our Facebook group by clicking here.
• Find your MP and ask them to sign EDM 1293 by clicking here.
