Manchester pubs and police praised following riots

Licensees in Manchester have been praised for their response to last night's rioting by the city's Pub and Club Network.

With disorder erupting in the city at around 5.30pm, a number of pubs were instructed by police to close early and whilst most licensed premises were untouched by the rioters, others were not so lucky.

Among the pubs worst affected was the View Bar, on Canal Street, which will not open today following extensive damage and looting last night.

Area manager Jacqui Cowan told the Publican's Morning Advertiser: "I think we were hit hardest. We had to close at about 6pm and get all the staff out of the premises, which we did, and then it was just a waiting game for us.

"We weren't able to leave the area until about 10pm - it was 12pm when we found out one of the windows had been smashed. They have just completely trashed the top bar and there are no drinks left at all.

"They have tried to remove TVs and taken all the music equipment. I have no idea as yet how much it is all going to cost but we will not be opening today."

Phil Burke, spokesman for the Manchester Pub and Club Network, said: "It was absolutely petrifying last night. We had several pubs looted and boarded up and advised all licensees to shut down until further notice. The city was in lockdown.

"We have had a great response from licensees and praise the police for their brilliant response in the circumstances, as well as the CCTV officers with whose help we were able to direct the police to where the trouble was taking place.

"We had police from Merseyside, Wales, and all over Lancashire assisting us and they did a fantastic job despite being overstretched. I am still waiting to see what will happen today."

Kro Bar in Piccadilly was also affected by the riots. According to a member of staff, "a few windows were smashed, there were some blood stains on the floor, and a few fridges were displaced. Bottles of wine were stolen and the beer taps were dripping over the edge of the bar." The pub closed at 5.30pm but it is open for business today.