On Monday 16 December 2024, National Pubwatch Regional Representatives for Yorkshire, Simon Pawson and Elizabeth Murphy attended the Popworld nightclub in York to present Star Awards to two worthy recipients for their efforts to protect a vulnerable customer.
The recipients are Deputy Managers at the venue.
At approximately 01:18 a.m. on 5 October 2024 they were on duty at Popworld, when a distressed female customer approached them at the front door. Deputy Manager Hannah Pearson asked her what was wrong and the female alleged that she had been ‘groped’ whilst inside the venue.
Deputy Manager Jason Pearson remained with the customer to provide reassurance whilst Hannah went to view the CCTV to see if she could identify the alleged offender. Hannah managed to locate the person within the venue and so Jason escorted the victim to a safe place.
The CCTV record appeared to confirm that an assault had taken place, and the victim indicated that she wanted to make an official complaint to the police.
Door staff detained the alleged offender and the police were notified of the allegation. Police officers attended the venue, arrested the alleged offender and interviewed the victim.
The police investigation is ongoing. Chief Inspector Carol Kirk, the North Yorkshire Police lead on Violence Against Women and Girls, recognised the venues participation in police led vulnerability training and the fact that they had reacted positively to the allegation.
She stated: “Everyone should have the right to go about their business and leisure (activities) feeling safe. The positive action taken by Jason and Hannah, is an example of how we can work together effectively. I’m pleased to hear that they have been nominated for recognition of their good work and commitment to safeguarding and I would like to thank them for their good practice”.
The National Pubwatch Star Award is sponsored by HIT Training www.hittraining.co.uk
