From the http://www.harrowtimes.co.uk 13th October 2004. By Adrian Kwintner.

Drug pub set for closure.

A PUB has been ordered to close for at least two months, after 28 people were arrested in a massive drugs raid.

Police swooped on the "Pullman," in Woolwich New Road, Woolwich, after a three-month long investigation into alleged drug dealing at the pub.

Now officers have successfully obtained a court order, meaning the pub will have to remain closed until December 12.

More than 200 officers were involved in the undercover operation, which has been running since July.

Operation leader Inspector Jim Moore, described the investigation as extremely successful.

He said: "The drugs themselves are not the only problem, it is also the disorder this leads to, which has often degenerated into violent incidents both inside and outside the pub.

"We could have asked for a three month closure order but were conscious of the effect a loss of Christmas trade could have on the business.

"It has been made quite clear to the owners that they must comeback with an alternative plan to reshape the pub - if this is not satisfactory, we will extend the closure period.

"This sends a message to licensees everywhere that this sort of disorder will not be tolerated."

Five people have appeared in court on charges of either supplying or possessing cocaine and ecstasy.

Tracy Parnell, 23, of Fairlawn, Charlton, pleaded guilty at Woolwich Magistrates' Court to supplying cocaine, and will be sentenced next month.

Four others - Mervin Thomas, of Normandy Way, Erith; Prince Nicely, of Slade Green Road, Slade Green; Stephen Mukasa, of Eardly Point, Woolwich; and Tony Bashford, of Bingham Point, Woolwich did not enter pleas and were remanded to appear before Greenwich magistrates on October 18.

Sonia Viner, from residents' group Woolwich Common United, said: "I used to go to the "Pullman" but stopped because of the disorder.

"It's great to see that the police are doing something about drugs."