Countdown star detained in hospital after stabbing rival

A former Countdown champion who stabbed a rival at a fan convention in a “terrifying incident” will be detained in hospital for treatment, a judge has ruled.

- MATHILDE GRANDJEAN

John Cowen, 31, entered the convention venue with a knife in hand, walking up to fellow Countdown champion Thomas Carey before stabbing him in the upper arm. This was heard at Preston Crown Court on Wednesday. The incident happened on 14 September 2024 at a Focal Countdown Group gathering, where former contestants and fans meet for tournaments.

Judge Guy Mathieson said Cowen entered the venue at the Wainwright Social Club in Blackpool, Lancashire, and “went straight for Mr Carey”.

“You were in possession of two kitchen knives and already held one of them in your hand - clearly to be used as a weapon,” Judge Mathieson said. “This was a terrifying incident of deliberate violence with a knife which could have caused far more serious injury and possible lethality.”