Micropub raided by thieves
BANDITS who raided a micropub left a trail of destruction.
The owner of The Slaters Pick on Baker Street, who did not wish to be named, said a slump in profits has made 2018 extremely tough, and finding his bar burgled was just like it was his own home.
To top it all, a busy night’s takings, around £800, weren’t his only losses from the Middlesbrough bar, with expensive CCTV equipment and doors destroyed by the intruders.
He said: “We are independent. Business has been bad enough this year with everybody, all little bars and businesses, everyone has suffered this year for some reason.
“So what a bad time to break-in someone’s premises and steal. You don’t need that.
“We have staff to pay, we have overheads to pay and we don’t need that.”
The pub had been shut for a mere 20 minutes when it was broken into in the early hours of Thursday.
Thieves stole items including spirits from behind the bar and cash from the night’s takings.
The owner said the burglary followed a busy open mic night and around £800 was stolen.
The bar has shared stills from CCTV showing two suspects at the premises in a bid to catch the culprits.
The owner added: “It was 20 minutes after shutting.
“They must have seen the staff leave and then they have done it.
“It’s only a little terraced house, it’s like your own home.”
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: “Police were notified on Thursday, December 6, of a breakin at the Slaters Pick on Baker Street in Middlesbrough.
“Scenes of crime officers have attended the premises and inquiries are on-going.
“We would appeal for anyone with information, especially those from nearby premises with private CCTV, to contact Cleveland Police via the 101 number, quoting event 222688.”
The Slaters Pick first opened its doors around two-and-a-half years ago.
The bar features an industrial theme throughout.
The bar is reopening on Friday following the break-in after repairs and increased security measures.