A Liverpool Football Club staff Christmas party in the city’s Anglican cathedral was halted early amid newspaper reports that suspected drug paraphernalia was discovered.

The party was ended by staff at the cathedral, which said in a statement that an “incident” occurred “that was not in line with our values”.

Liverpool FC said an “incident” had taken place on Thursday night, adding: “We do not condone or tolerate the use of illegal substances at any of our sites or events.”

None of the club’s players or men’s first team manager Arne Slot attended the event, which was held for non-footballing staff.

Liverpool FC said a staff member was “recovering well” from hospital treatment after a medical incident which was “unrelated” to the other concerns.

A club statement said: “We do not condone or tolerate the use of illegal substances at any of our sites or events.

“We thank the events team at the venue for their swift action and professional response to the medical emergency which was unrelated. The member of staff is recovering well.”

Liverpool Cathedral, the largest in Britain and fifth largest in the world, said it hosts such events to help keep the site open and free to enter for the public.

A representative told the BBC: “During an event in the last week, an incident occurred that was not in line with our core values. The team on duty followed the correct procedures to bring the event to an early close.

“We want to thank our staff and Liverpool FC for the swift actions taken and partnership working, and will continue to review our procedures and mitigation measures for future events.”

Liverpool are top of the Premier League table by five points after a 2-2 draw with Fulham at Anfield on Saturday.