Scene of raid: The Garden House Club, in Stanley

AN ARMED robber beat up the steward of a workingmen's club and made off with thousands of pounds in cash.

The man, who hid his face with a motorcycle helmet, entered the bar area of the Garden House club in Tyne Road, Stanley, at about 7am on Sunday morning.

Police said that he confronted the 48-year-old steward, who was counting the takings, and punched him to the ground.

He then snatched cash from a table, stuffed it into a bag and fled.

The robbery has stunned members of the small familyorientated club, which dates back to 1913.

Club chairman Fred Hall, 58, said: "I came along on Sunday morning and the police had sealed it off as it was a crime scene so nobody could get in for our meeting.

"You do not expect something like this to happen early on a morning. People here all know each other and we don't get many strangers in because we are off the beaten track.

"Everyone is shocked because they gave the steward a good hiding.

"This is just a small and friendly place and the regulars are disgusted."

Police carried out door-todoor inquiries in the immediate area this week.

Detective Inspector Marian Garland said the raid, which left the steward with bruising to his face and a cut lip, was over in seconds.

She said: "It was obviously well-planned, but even at this time in the morning there were plenty of people about.

"We know there were a number of customers queuing at the Co-op store just 50 yards away for their Sunday newspapers.

"We know that people walked past the club in the street. Any of them could have seen this man as he went into and came out of the club and we want to hear from them as soon as possible."

It is not yet known if the raider arrived or made his getaway by motorcycle.

Police said they are particularly interested to hear from anyone who may have seen a rider and his machine parked up in the immediate area that Sunday morning.

Anyone who can help is asked to ring 0845-60-60-365 or call the independent organisation Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111 .

12:38pm Friday 16th May 2008

Print

Email this