A PUB has had its licence suspended after a CS gas attack on its premises injured five people.

The White Lion, in Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, has been forced to temporarily shut its doors following the incident at the weekend which led to three arrests

Its licence was suspended by Epping Forest District Council yesterday (November 5) following a request by Essex Police which has linked 15 incidents of criminality to the pub in the last 12 months.

District Commander Chief Inspector Alan Ray said there had been a number of street fights in Sun Street near to the pub recently and the latest incident made suspension a necessity.

He said: “We are pleased that we have made progress on this premises and we look forward to it reopening with strict conditions and better management.

“It's all part of our drive to improve the district with regards to incidents of violence and anti-social behaviour. Our focus on Sun Street will not end.”

Epping Forest District Council has said a 21 day review into the pub's licence is now taking place.

An appeal against the suspension will be held on Monday, November 9 at 11.30am in the district council's Epping offices.

More to follow.