Landlord is stabbed in back after darts row
A PUB landlord was stabbed in the back as a row believed to be about darts escalated out of control.
Two other female members of staff were punched in the face during the attack at the Nursery Inn, on Green Lane, Heaton Norris, on Saturday night.
Police arrested two men, aged 22 and 19 and have released them under investigation.
It is thought the violence erupted at around 11.20pm after two men wanted to play darts but were unable to.
The landlord was taken to hospital in a serious condition but is now said to be stable. The two women suffered minor injuries.
A police spokesman said: “Two men were in the pub as customers and an argument developed over playing darts.
“It escalated out of control and the landlord was allegedly stabbed in the back.
“It was established that three people had been assaulted. Inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances.”
The Nursery Inn declined to comment on the incident, but posted a notice on Facebook on Sunday morning confirming the venue was closed: “Unfortunately at this time due to an incident that has occurred yesterday evening. Our pub will be closed.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause any of you. And hope to see you all soon! Thank you. The Nursery Inn.”
The Hydes brewery venue is described as family-friendly on its website. No one at the brewery was available for comment. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.