'CS spray' set off in Bournemouth nightclub Published duration 29 September 2018

media caption Suspected CS spray was set off inside the nightclub

Suspected CS spray was set off inside a nightclub leaving 40 people struggling to breathe and with itchy eyes.

The unidentified irritant was released inside Cameo in Fir Vale Road, Bournemouth, at about 02:00 BST.

About 2,000 people were in the club when it was evacuated. Paramedics treated 40 people, including one who was taken to hospital as a precaution.

Officers searched the venue and found no evidence of any substance which posed a continuing risk to the public.

image copyright Josh Wilde image caption Cameo was evacuated and paramedics treated 40 people

'Senseless act'

Student Josh Wilde, 20, who was in the club at the time, said: "It was so sudden - everyone spontaneously started to cough, and their eyes were itching - something had been let off.

"People were shocked but quite calm as we were ushered out.

"It wasn't until we got outside and saw the sheer number of police and emergency vehicles that we realised just how serious it was."

image copyright Google image caption Police said about 2,000 people were in the club at the time

Rapper Yungen had been performing at the club as part of an event to mark freshers' week.

He tweeted: "Everyone that just come to see me in Bournemouth as I'm sure all of you could see the police shut off my mic without saying anything mid performance because apparently someone sprayed pepper spray... I hope everyone's safe".

In a statement the nightclub said: "This was a senseless act which ruined an otherwise great evening.

"We hope everyone involved feels better today and we will be working closely with the police to make sure the offender is caught.

"Thorough checks have been carried out and we will be open as usual tonight."

Police said about 2,000 people were in the club at the time and revellers complained of shortness of breath and itchy eyes.

A spokeswoman said: "Following a decision by management of the premises to evacuate, around 40 people were treated by the ambulance service for minor effects."