A former champion of the popular TV show “Countdown” allegedly attacked another former contestant during a fan club event in Blackpool last year. The incident involved John Cowen, 31, who reportedly made aggressive sounds before stabbing Thomas Carey with a kitchen knife. The altercation took place at the Wainwright Social Club where members of the Focal Countdown Group had gathered for a friendly competition.
Surveillance footage presented in court showed Cowen entering the room and assaulting Carey before being subdued by other attendees. It was revealed that Cowen felt disadvantaged as his competitors had been practicing online using an app. Due to his mental health condition, Cowen has been deemed unfit for a conventional trial, and a trial of facts will determine his involvement in the incident without assigning guilt.
The prosecution described the moment when Cowen attacked Carey, highlighting the swift and violent nature of the assault. Carey managed to grab Cowen’s wrist to stop the attack, resulting in a wound that required medical attention. Both individuals were familiar with each other from previous Countdown events, with Cowen having appeared on the show in 2017 and achieving notable success.
The court proceedings involve charges of wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article against Cowen. Carey, an accomplished contestant himself, was treated for his injuries following the incident. The case is ongoing as further details are examined by the jury.