A POPULAR Glasgow restaurant has been forced to close after a Chinese New Year celebration descended into drunken chaos.

 

The Loon Fung, in Sauchiehall Street, has had to close for up to two days following a major incident, where a man was left seriously injured after a fight between three groups of diners.

Police slapped the restaurant with the 'sin bin' closure after the brawl, which took place at around 11.45pm on Tuesday.

Superintendent Alan Murray said the emergency closure notice was issued to "protect public safety".

Officers were called to The Loon Fung in the city centre after a drunken fight broke out between three groups, who are understood to have been celebrating Chinese New Year.

A 36-year-old man, who was slashed across the stomach during the brawl, was rushed to Glasgow Western Infirmary.

He was treated for other "serious injuries" and hospital staff described his condition as "stable".

Superintendent Murray, who is head of Greater Glasgow Licensing department, said: "Our officers have taken immediate action to protect public safety.

"We have served an emergency closure notice on the premises under the Licensing Scotland Act and will be submitting a report to Glasgow City Council Licensing Board requesting a review of the circumstances and consideration of what further action is required."

Licensing legislation allows police and licensing boards to intervene early where they have concerns over the running of pubs, clubs, restaurants and off-sales.

Much of the violence was caught on CCTV and officers are understood to be reviewing the footage.

The restaurant bills itself as a "Glasgow landmark" which is a "favourite with the local Chinese community" and is "renowned among Scottish diners".

Chief Inspector Mark Sutherland, warned violence in the city's bars, clubs and restaurants, would not be tolerated.

The area commander for Glasgow city centre added: "This was a serious incident and we have reacted swiftly and decisively to keep people safe.

"Violent crime remains a high priority for our community within the city centre and we will not tolerate it in any form.

"Those who fail to manage licensed premises effectively and ensure the safety of their patrons can expect a robust response."

Police said "inquiries are continuing" and urged any witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.