Police hunt attackers after gym charity brawl (From Worcester News)

Police hunt attackers after gym charity brawl

7:50am Tuesday 25th September 2012 in News By Sarah Davies

A MAN was knocked unconscious during a mass brawl at a charity event in Worcester – and police believe he was hit with a bottle and fire extinguisher.

As we first revealed in your Worcester News yesterday, a “large-scale” fight brought chaos to the City Gym in Sheriff Street on Saturday night.

West Mercia Police have now released a statement about the brawl, which happened just after 10pm during a mixed martial arts event.

Police said scuffles started among spectators inside the gym and the disorder got worse outside.

One man was left unconscious with several cuts to his head after he was set upon by a gang. The victim was treated by paramedics at the scene and taken to Worcestershire Royal Hospital for further treatment. No arrests have been made so far.

PC Alex Denny, who is investigating, said: “Sadly, a number of spectators at the event ruined an otherwise successful evening and a man has been left badly injured.

“Witnesses have told us that the victim was attacked by a group of six or seven black males and it has been alleged he was struck with a fire extinguisher and a bottle.

“I would like to appeal for any witnesses to come forward who have information about the general fighting that occurred, but in particular the assault on the man with head injuries.”

A spokesman at gym said about 400 people attended the sell-out event, which was held in aid of Cancer Research UK, and the disturbance had not stopped the night from finishing.

He said: “It was a scuffle and there were no arrests. It was one person that started it.

“The security came and he was taken outside. Everybody was calm.

“It was such a successful event. It was unbelievable. We’ve had a lot of phone calls saying thank you for your hard work.

“As a gym, we do a lot for this town – we do stuff for kids who have been in trouble with the police and work with probation.

“It was just a shame that happened. It was our first one and you learn. I don’t think any mistakes were made. It hasn’t put us off and we shall definitely do more.”

Anyone who saw what happened is urged to call police on 0300 3333000, quoting 750-S-220912, or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.