Man ‘Squawks Like a Seagull’ From Hospital Roof While Wearing Plague Doctor Mask

A bizarre rooftop incident at a North Wales hospital has ended with a man being fined after he climbed onto the building wearing a black gown and a “plague doctor” mask, causing a three-hour disruption.

Leon Gillespie, 26, climbed onto the roof of Glan Clwyd Hospital in Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, where he reportedly began squawking like a seagull and shouted accusations at hospital staff.

The unusual scene led to emergency negotiators being called to the hospital as efforts were made to bring the situation to a safe conclusion. After several hours, Gillespie eventually climbed down from the roof using a ladder.

He later appeared before Llandudno Magistrates’ Court, where he admitted causing a nuisance on NHS premises.

The court heard that Gillespie had been wearing a black gown and a plague doctor-style mask during the incident, while his actions caused disruption at a busy healthcare facility.

District Judge Gwyn Jones imposed a £200 fine and ordered Gillespie to pay £100 in costs.

The judge also acknowledged that Gillespie had been experiencing mental health difficulties at the time, telling him: “It’s clear you were going through some mental health issues at the time.”

Defence solicitor Michael Pugh told the court that Gillespie had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and described the incident as a “cry for help”.

It was also heard that Gillespie had been detained under the Mental Health Act for nearly two weeks following the hospital disturbance.

The case also involved separate theft offences, with fines and compensation ordered.

While the incident caused disruption and required a significant emergency response, the court hearing highlighted the importance of recognising mental health struggles and ensuring people in crisis receive appropriate support.

The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public services when unusual behaviour, mental health concerns and disruption collide.