A HARROW Weald pub could lose its licence after officers found underage drinkers in possession of drugs following a police raid.

Harrow Council’s licensing panel used emergency powers on Friday, March 25, to force The Wealdstone Inn, in High Road, to close temporarily before a decision is made on its future at a full hearing on Monday, April 18.

Harrow Police licensing officer Sergeant John Crump said in a report that on February 5 the establishment was visited by officers and customers were arrested for possession of drugs.

On March 18, officers again visited and officers found people under the age of 18 drinking beer and spirits, with the youngest being 15 years old.

He said: “Serious crime has taken place at these premises – namely serious assaults and dealing of Class A drugs and children found in the premises in possession of Class A drugs.”

Mr Crump added there had been “several violent incidents” at the premises since November 2009 when three people who lived at the premises were arrested for a serious assault, which occurred outside the pub.

He said: “The allegation was that the suspects had used a hurling stick to attack the victim, fracturing his cheek bone.”

Mr Crump added a standard review would be “inappropriate” as it did not allow for the immediate suspension of the licence.

Punch Taverns has been the licence holder since 2005.

The company said in a statement: "It is always our priority that our pubs are well managed and run in a responsible manner, providing safe, welcoming facilities for the community.

“We are co-operating fully as part of the review process and continue to work closely with the local authorities. The pub will remain closed until a full review on April 18."