Liverpool’s staff Christmas party at the city’s Cathedral is SHUT DOWN over ‘drug paraphernalia’ found in the toilets

Liverpool’s staff Christmas Party – at the city’s cathedral – was shut down early after suspected drug paraphernalia was found in the toilets.

Officials at the venue were moved to carry out searches after a medical emergency took place during the glitzy Thursday night bash, which was attended by around 500 club workers.

The emergency triggered concerns that drugs were being taken and subsequent checks of the toilets at the iconic building unearthed a number of empty snag bags, which are often used to contain illegal substances.

As a result, the decision was then taken to cut the glitzy party short.

Mail Sport understands that it subsequently emerged that the emergency was not linked to drug use.

The member of staff involved was taken to hospital and has recovered well.

The annual event for all members of non-football staff was held at the city’s famous cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral was decked out in the club’s colours for the year-end staff function

Bands had been hired to play at the city’s Anglican Cathedral, the fifth biggest in the world, and at least one set was ended early.

Bars closed around 30 minutes ahead of time, according to insiders. After being sent away, some found alternate venues to head to.

Considerable expense went on the event, aimed at providing non-football staff with a thank you for their work throughout the year.

None of the players or manager Arne Slot are thought to have been present.

The iconic Church of England venue celebrated 100 years since its consecration in 1924 and is the seat of the bishop of Liverpool and the mother church of the diocese of Liverpool. It is the largest cathedral and religious building in Britain.

For the event, Liverpool’s badge was projected high onto the chapel windows while the hall was bathed in red light.

A Liverpool spokesperson said: ‘We do not condone or tolerate the use of illegal substances at any of our sites or events.

‘We thank the events team at the venue for their swift action and professional response to the medical emergency which was unrelated. 

Liverpool won against Girona in the Champions League this week – days before the party

‘The member of staff is recovering well.’

Liverpool have had plenty to celebrate this year, with Slot’s team top of the Premier League and Champions League after a fantastic start to the season since Jurgen Klopp’s summer exit. 

Earlier on Thursday, the players were at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital to meet young patients on their annual Christmas visit.

They are back in action against Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday.