DOZENS of police officers were called to a York city centre club after violence flared at a funeral wake.

About ten police vehicles and an ambulance swooped on the New York Club in Blossom Street last night after fighting broke out between mourners. Three people were arrested, but one witness said 50 people were involved in the brawl.

One club member, who did not want to be named, said: "There was a commotion after one lady said to another she had no right to be there. Then it all kicked off.

"I was disgusted as I was there with my son and daughter, who are just six and nine years old. There were about 50 men and women of all different ages fighting. I have never seen anything like this at the New York Club before."

A police spokesman said: "Shortly after 6pm, police were called to a disturbance at the New York Club in Blossom Street, York. Initially, five foot-patrol officers were dispatched along with three mobile patrols.

"The reason for the multiple attendance was that numerous calls were being received, making it unclear as to how many people were involved in the disturbance.

"On arrival of the police, the incident calmed down then escalated again, resulting in three people being arrested for public order offences.

"An ambulance was also called at the same time, for a person suffering a panic attack within the premises. The people in custody are currently being interviewed and dealt with by police."

Nobody at the club would comment about the incident.

Updated: 09:33 Thursday, May 04, 2006