Holidaymaker Beaten Unconscious Wins Damages

A campsite holidaymaker who was beaten unconscious by security guards has won almost £10,000 in compensation.

Stephen Canham, 39, was enjoying a drink in the bar of the Makis Leisure Complex near the campsite in Bridlington when his chair slipped and he bumped into the table behind. A female customer complained that he had spilt her drink.

Mr Canham did not realise there was a problem until two security guards asked him to leave. He told them he would leave but first wanted to know the reason.

It was then that Mr Canham was attacked by the security guards. One grabbed him by the throat and punched him in the face. The other pulled his arm behind his back while his colleague continued to punch him.

Outside the bar, the attack continued. Mr Canham claimed that one of the security guards took a run and kicked him in the face. At this point he lost consciousness.

The attack was carried out in front of his family, including his two young children, as well as a crowd of shocked onlookers.

Mr Canham brought a personal injury claim against the owners of the club on the ground that they were vicariously liable for the attack. After issuing proceedings, a settlement of £9,250 was agreed.

Hotels, restaurants, travel operators and other leisure providers have a duty of care to their customers and can be found vicariously liable for the wrongful actions of their staff.