Drinkers Restrain "Mad-man" Seeking Revenge For Landlord's Ban

A 56 year old local man was been slashed across the stomach as he was drinking in the Old Pack Horse public house.

The apparently motiveless attack took place at 7.45 on Tuesday evening when a man, who had previously been banned by the manager Ted Birch, re-entered the pub wielding a knife.

He slashed the local man across the stomach before being restrained and detained by other customers.

An eye-witness said "He came into the pub shouting and directing his attack at the manager Ted. To be honest though, someone who is that angry is going to try and harm anyone in his way."

The victim was taken to Charing Cross hospital where he was kept overnight. Fortunately for him, his injuries were not considered too serious and the knife did not penetrate any organs.

The suspect, a 46 year old Isleworth man, was arrested and charged with affray and possession of an offensive weapon.

He was kept in custody to appear at Feltham Magistrates Court on Thursday 17th May.

Reports of the incident have been met with shock by the pub's many regulars. One said "What happened at the Old Pack Horse was an extremely rare occurrence and is not something which can be allowed to trigger the fearful fraternity into campaigning for door supervisors on all public houses in Chiswick."

A spokesperson for Fuller's Brewery who own the Old Pack Horse said, "This is an isolated incident in a well run pub. We wish our customer a speedy and complete recovery."

If you witnessed the incident or have information that may be relevant to the enquiry you are asked to contact Hounslow CID on 020 8247 6160 or you can phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

May 25, 2007