Westminster City Council’s Licensing Sub‑Committee voted on Monday 17 August to suspend the licence of the Mistress of Mayfair nightclub until a comprehensive review can be completed. The decision follows a Metropolitan Police request after a severe assault on a patron that left the victim with life‑threatening injuries.
Police Superintendent Natasha Evans described the assault as “attempted murder was one of the most serious offences known to law”. She added that the incident highlighted “the extreme seriousness of the incident, the ongoing risks to the public, and apparent failings in the venue's operations and management”.
The victim, identified as Rhys Copas, suffered an eight‑centimetre wound that ran from his left ear down the middle of his throat, severing his jugular, damaging nerves and exposing his voice box. He also sustained two injuries to his cheek. He remains in stable condition.
Lucci Guthrie, 28, has been charged with attempted murder. At Hendon Magistrates’ Court, prosecutor Manisha Kukadia told the court that “the complainant had slapped the defendant, who then slashed his neck and face”. Guthrie is due to appear at the Old Bailey on 9 September. Two further arrests were made for alleged obstruction of police, and officers deployed PAVA spray to restore order. Security staff were also criticised for failing to detain the attacker.
The venue’s legal representatives said the licence holder will fully engage with the upcoming summary licensing hearing.
Authorities in Canada and the United States have taken similar steps when violent episodes occur in nightlife venues, suspending licences and tightening ID‑scanning procedures to protect public safety. The Westminster decision reflects this broader trend of regulatory bodies intervening after serious crime.
The incident was first reported by the source report.