01 December 2024 , 17:00
429
0
A man has been arrested on suspicion of rape in Soho’s famous Groucho Club days after Westminster Council suspended its licence.
The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into reports of a woman being attacked inside the celebrity hotspot in Dean Street, on November 13.
It was today confirmed that a 34-year-old man was arrested at an address in Hertfordshire on suspicion of rape. He remains in custody.
At this stage, there is no suggestion employees of the joint were involved in the commission of the offence.
The private members’ club had its licence suspended by the city council on Tuesday after a request by the Met.
A full hearing must take place within 28 days from when the police force submitted the review application.
Until today neither the police – nor the venue itself – had actually shed light on the ‘serious criminal offence’ that forced it to close doors ahead of the Christmas party season.
A statement the club released to members read: ‘Reports that a serious crime may have taken place at the Groucho have been widely circulated
‘At this stage we would like to take the opportunity to both assure you and confirm that the club (or indeed its staff or members) are not considered a suspect in any allegation of serious crime.
‘The club took the decision to voluntarily close its doors for practical reasons for a short period of time, following agreement with the council that there should be a temporary suspension of our licence.
‘Inevitably, there has been some misinformation circulating.’
For as many as 30 years, the Groucho was attracting A-listers in London, from Harry Styles, Kate Moss and Liam Gallagher, to Princess of Wales, Diana, before her death.