Probe after 15 fall ill at club

15 people had to be treated by ambulance staff after mass illness at a social club
12 April 2012

Investigations are under way after a number of people suddenly fell ill during a wedding reception at a social club.

West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to the JCB Lakeside Club in Rocester, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, to reports a number of people had suddenly become ill at about 11.40pm on Friday night.

A spokeswoman said 15 people were found to be suffering sudden onset of symptoms including diarrhoea and vomiting - of which three needed hospital treatment.

The club, whose members are JCB employees and their families, said it had not provided the catering for the function but was helping with investigations into the cause of the sudden illness.

The Health Protection Agency was also believed to be investigating.

A spokesman for the Lakeside Club said: "The facilities there were hired out for a private wedding party on Friday evening. While the club did not provide the catering for the function, we will be helping with any investigation as we would for any environmental health issue."

West Midlands Ambulance Service said they were called to the club at about 11.40pm after reports that a number of people had suddenly become ill.

Six ambulances, a senior officer, an incident support officer, a doctor, the hazardous area response team and an emergency planning officer were sent to the scene.

A spokeswoman said: "Fifteen people were found to be suffering sudden onset of symptoms that included diarrhoea and vomiting. Further 999 calls were made to the trust's emergency operations centre from a number of people who had become ill at home who had attended the event. Medical advice was provided to these patients."

She said anyone who had attended the event and developed diarrhoea and vomiting should stay at home and make sure they drink lots of water, adding: "If any blood is being passed or if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours patients should contact their GP or NHS Direct."

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