A man is fortunate to be alive after he had his throat slit at an Elvis tribute night in a Chessington pub.

Stephen Martin Sherwood, 50, is accused of slashing Gino Taffurelli’s neck with a Stanley knife at the Chessington Oak pub in Moor Lane, Lavender Hill magistrates' court heard today.

The incident is believed to have taken place in the smoking area outside the pub, at about 8pm on Friday, September 13, before an Elvis tribute act was due to begin.

The themed night was cancelled when Mr Taffurelli was rushed to St George’s Hospital for emergency surgery.

Mr Sherwood appeared in court dressed in a black jumper and dark trousers.

Prosecutor Caroline Mungal said: "Mr Taffurelli’s neck was partially severed. It had to be sewn back. He is fortunate to be alive."

Mr Sherwood, of Shepherds Bush Road, Shepherds Bush, walked into Kingston police station by appointment yesterday evening where he was arrested and taken into custody.

He was remanded in custody today and did not apply for bail.

He will next appear at Kingston Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on October 8 to face charges of maliciously causing grievous bodily harm to Mr Taffurelli and threatening a person with a blade in a public place.

Another man, arrested on suspicion of attempted wounding with intent on Friday, September 20, has been bailed to appear at Kingston police station on October 7.

Chessington councillor Andrew Day said: “I am very shocked at what has happened. It is a shame that something like that could happen right on our doorsteps.

“I hope the guy makes a full recovery.”

The Oak has had a number of themed events over the summer, including Tina Turner and Freddie Mercury tribute nights.

A spokeswoman from Mitchells and Butlers, which operates the pub, said: "This was an isolated incident and in no way connected to the pub.

"It was not appropriate to hold the theme night as the police were investigating the incident at the time."

 

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