The accident happened just before 3pm on Sunday, when a 60-year-old man apparently tripped and fell down a staircase at Ellison Social Club, in Ellison Street, Jarrow.

Police say the man, who has not been named, was later taken to hospital, but his injuries were not thought to be serious.

Medical staff treated the man at the scene, while police carried out an investigation at the club, better known locally as The Buffs.

A 73-year-old passer-by said: "At first, there were reports a man had fallen off a balcony at the club.

"I counted six police cars and two paramedic vans at the scene, and they must have been treating the man inside the club, because the incident went on for a while.

"I eventually saw the medics take the man away on a stretcher.

"The police took tape inside The Buffs, as though they were sealing off part of the premises."

No one was available for comment at the club, but the Gazette understands that CCTV footage of the accident may be available.

A spokesman for North-umbria Police said: "At 3pm, on Sunday, June 28, police were informed by the ambulance service that an injured man had fallen from steps at Ellison Social Club.

"The 60-year-old was treated by paramedics at the scene and taken to hospital.

"His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening."