Machete wielding robbers’ raid

Shibden Mill Inn, Halifax....31st August 2011.... Picture by Simon Hulme

Staff at the historic Shibden Mill Inn pub, Shibden, were left shaken following the terrifying ordeal on Monday morning.

The thieves fled the scene in a getaway car after the incident unfolded in broad daylight in the pub’s secluded car park.

Manager Glen Pearson said: “The owner of the business and myself were about to take an amount of money to the bank when three guys approached us from the car park.

“They had hoods and they demanded the money, there was a substantial amount, and they were wielding baseball bats and some sort of machete. It was a very threatening situation.

“They were demanding the money, which was already in the car then they demanded the car keys and smashed the window and took the cash.

“They ran up the car park and I ran after them, they then jumped in a car and sped out of the car park and up to Lee Lane.

“Everybody was shocked, staff were shouting after them out of the window. Luckily a lot of the guests had checked out.

“We have been here for 17 years and we have never had anything like this.

“But the business continues as normal. We will certainly be reviewing all of our security. The security of our guests is paramount.”

The suspects, all described as around 20 to 30 years old, are thought to have travelled towards Ploughcroft in a dark coloured saloon and police are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Inspector Gary Stephenson, of Calderdale CID, said: “Fortunately the victim was uninjured during this incident, however it has clearly been a frightening experience. I am appealing for anyone who was in the area and may have seen the car and its occupants prior to the incident, or indeed as the car made off from the scene.

“The incident took place in broad day light, in a secluded car park and I believe the suspects may have local knowledge.

“I am sure someone will have seen something and I urge them to come forward with information which may be vital in identifying those responsible.”

Anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and saw anyone suspicious, or who may have seen the suspects in the vehicle prior to, or after the incident is asked to contact Calderdale District CID via 101.