Bristol University students banned from Kings Weston House after ‘vandalism and theft’ at Spring Ball

Students from a Bristol University medics’ society have been banned from a Grade I-listed home after ‘vandalism and theft’ at their Spring Ball.

Galenicals - the university’s Medical Students’ Society - were accused of causing damage and stealing part of a rare bronze statue during the event on March 12.

The owners of the 303-year-old Kings Weston House have since been compensated by Bristol University, news website The Tab has reported.

Damage was also done to the house’s bathrooms where hand driers were ripped off the walls and soap dispensers broken.

The most expensive damage was said to be dealt to a three-legged mahogany table. Part of a rare bronze statue of two cherubs was eventually returned.

John Barbey, part-owner and Director of Kings Weston House said: “It was the first time we had had vandalism and theft after almost a year of events and the last thing we had expected.

“At one point, people were dancing on the Italian sideboard in the Ballroom.

“Especially towards the end there was widespread drunkenness with many guests rude to the staff and crashing into carrying trays.”

An investigation has since been opened by the university to review what happened.

A University of Bristol spokesperson said: “We have been made aware of unacceptable behaviour which occurred at the medical student ball earlier this month.

“This is obviously incredibly disappointing but it must be stressed that the majority of attendees behaved impeccably and their reputation should not be tarnished by the actions of a few.

“We are investigating and considering what appropriate action needs to be taken.”

The night was billed by organisers as “a good time all round” with live music and fairground rides.

The Bristol University Galenicals Society has since been banned from holding events at the site in the future.