Long-running Exeter nightclub under licence review following suspected spiking incident

Long-running nightclub Timepiece, which has existed in Exeter for more than four decades, is currently facing a licence review over a suspected spiking incident.

According to Devon Live, an application to review the venue’s licence was submitted after a woman, said to be a “vulnerable young person”, fell ill and collapsed during an event on September 20.

The application claims that the woman became “seriously unwell” while inside the venue, and collapsed when leaving the premises. It also alleges that door staff did not respond adequately.

The grounds for review, which were shared via Exeter City Council’s website, include: “Failure to protect and aid a vulnerable young person who became unwell whilst on the premises.”

This also allegedly includes “failing to call an ambulance and requesting the vulnerable person be removed from the immediate vicinity of the premises.”

It claims that, despite “obvious signs of medical distress” such as a weak pulse, breathing difficulties and foaming at the mouth, door staff did not call an ambulance and asked her to be moved away from the site.

The licence review will also address claims of “insufficient ID checks and searches on entry to the premises” alleging that the venue is “inconsistent with standards expected of a licensed premises”.

"In suspected spiking, early reporting and testing is critical," the legal firm said (via Devon Live). "The venue's conduct undermines the licensing objectives of prevention of crime and public safety."

Dadds, a licensing solicitors company acting on behalf of the young woman, has asked anyone who has experienced a similar situation to come forward.

Timepiece was first established in the 1980s, taking over the '70s venue Dave Allen Disco on Little Castle Street. The club helped to introduce punk and acid jazz to Exeter, and has remained a popular hotspot for young people in the area.

Mixmag has reached out to Timepiece for comment.

[Via: Devon Live]

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter