Islington Tribune - News: Booze ban in church gardens

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Islington Tribune - by ROISIN GADELRAB
Published: 16 May 2008

BOOZE BAN IN CHURCH GARDENS

Crackdown follows attack on vicar after Sunday service

A NOTORIOUS park for drinkers is to become a “no booze” zone from tomorrow (Saturday) following a series of violent incidents, including an attack on a vicar.
Rev Paul Zaphiriou was punched in the chest in the lobby of his church, St Mary Magdalene in Holloway Road, after a Palm Sunday service.
He was attacked as he attempted to stop drinkers from boozing on the church steps. Although shaken by the incident, Rev Zaphiriou said he was not badly hurt. The attacker was later arrested and appeared in court, where he received a fine for common assault.
Now, a ban on booze has been imposed on the five-acre gardens belonging to St Mary Magdalene Church. It follows calls from residents and churchgoers who fear for their safety following the attack. Rev Zaphiriou said he was sorry the “no drink” zone would affect many of the community’s most vulnerable people.
The vicar, who has served at the church for two years, said: “Unfortunately the park around the church has got a bit of a reputation for being a haven for drinkers.
“This can be very intimidating for anyone walking through during the day and at night. I’ve witnessed fights, people shouting at each other and using inappropriate language.”
Following the attack on Rev Zaphiriou, residents in surrounding streets started a petition calling for a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in the gardens, which was later handed in to the council.
Highbury resident Mike Weedon said: “It’s about time. Even as a male adult I don’t like walking through the churchyard and park. It’s not nice when there’s a couple of blokes swigging beer and looking rather aggressive.”
Maciek Stawicki, a Polish construction worker who works in Barnsbury and was enjoying an after-work beer in the churchyard, said: “Maybe it is a good idea. I am Catholic and I respect the church and don’t like to see people mess it up, but I am no rich man so where am I supposed to go if I want to have a drink after work? A beer costs £3.50 in the pub and I can’t afford that.”
Lib Dem Councillor for St Mary’s ward, Emily Fieran-Reed, said: “Liberal Democrats are pushing hard for safety improvements around St Mary Magdalene Church.
“Following the shocking assault on the church’s vicar recently we stepped up our campaign.
“This new no drinking zone is a good first step. We are also working hard to ensure problem drinkers get support to access services.”
She said the council is carrying out a park audit and may upgrade lighting or install fencing.

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