Shops lining Beeston’s main shopping street were unable to welcome customers during what is normally their busiest trading period after police blocked off the area following a violent incident.
Emergency services attended High Road at approximately 12:40am on Saturday, April 25, after reports emerged that someone had been attacked with an object outside The Jesse Boot building. The casualty was taken to hospital for treatment, though medics do not consider the injuries to be serious.
Officers were still trying to trace another individual believed to be connected to the matter when the police cordon set up in the vicinity was lifted during the afternoon. The extensive perimeter remained while forensic work was carried out, staying in place until well after midday on Saturday.
This meant several businesses within the restricted zone—including Ezee vape shop, Cafe 94, Hing Kee bubble tea shop, Washoku sushi shop and Iguazu—could not operate for several hours.
Ian and Lilliana, who own the Iguazu gift shop situated within the cordoned area, said that Saturday is their busiest trading day and they had been due to open at 9am, meaning they had probably missed out on around £1,000 in takings. The barrier was already up when they arrived. They noted that on a beautiful, sunny day like today, shoppers would typically be out and about, but some people would now choose to stay home after seeing what had happened. They said authorities had no choice but to do what was necessary.
The owner of Hing Kee, a bubble tea outlet positioned right in the centre of the restricted zone, arrived at 9am to prepare for his regular 11:30am Saturday opening but could not get into the premises until around 12:30pm. He said he had lost roughly ninety minutes of trading, which was manageable, and that he was simply glad the victim had not been more seriously hurt.
The proprietor of Ezee Shop, who wished to remain anonymous, said he had been due to open at 9am, which was acceptable, and that he probably had not lost significant business.
Police are urging anyone with information about the assault to get in touch. Detective Inspector Ian Holmes said they were keen to speak with anyone who had been near High Road in Beeston shortly after midnight. The attack happened directly outside a pub on the main road, leaving a man needing hospital treatment. Anyone who witnessed the incident or believes they may have information that could help the investigation should contact them straight away. They would also appreciate anyone who had their vehicle parked on High Road overnight checking any dashcam footage they may have and passing it to officers.