Violent attack at Royal British Legion club (From Daily Echo)

Violent attack at Royal British Legion club

7:06am Monday 4th March 2013 in News

ROYAL British Legion clubs are not normally associated with violence and arrests.

But one of the buildings owned by the retired ex-servicemen’s organisation has been forced to tighten entry restrictions after a brawl left a 33-year-old man with a broken jaw.

The victim was hit in the face during a fracas on the dance floor at the Legion premises in the upmarket Hampshire town of Lymington.

Revellers were enjoying a 1970s and 1980s-themed party when the fun-filled event turned to violence.

The victim was taken to Southampton General Hospital, where his jaw was wired.

Police say he may need further surgery if the initial treatment proves unsuccessful.

A club spokesman said: “In light of the serious incident in the club, the committee felt it was appropriate to respond to the very real concerns that have been expressed by members, both verbally and in writing.

“In what was otherwise a very successful evening, there were several incidents of bad behaviour culminating in a serious assault.

“Whilst it should be pointed out that such incidents in our club are extremely rare, we simply cannot sit back on our hands and do nothing.

“The incidents in question are the subject of a current police investigation and it would therefore be inapproproate to comment further, other than to say what we can do better to try and ensure incidents such as this do not re-occur.”

Members have been reminded that they can sign in only two guests twice a month and a committee member will man the reception desk on Saturday evenings to ensure the rule is obeyed.

Membership cards will have to be shown at the door, while guests will be required to provide proof of identification and give their addresses, which will be recorded.

A Royal British Legion spokesman told the Daily Echo: “The police are still investigating and we don’t want to make any further comment.”

A 47-year-old Lymington man arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent has been bailed until April 2.