Anger as “callous” burglars target The Old Post Office Ale House weeks after opening

Post Office Ale Pub in Castleton

The newly-opened Old Post Office Ale House in Castleton was targeted by burglars on Saturday (12 March), sparking “anger and disgust” in the village.

The family business had been open just weeks when thieves broke in through a back window and made off with the cash register, food, alcohol, and £2,000 in cash.

Although CCTV security is in place, the base unit was ripped out leaving no footage of the incident, although it is believed that similar crimes in the area that have been caught on film may be connected.

A generous landlord from a nearby pub has lent spare CCTV equipment to the pub and security is now in full force.

Owner Andy Smith said: “After all the hard work we’ve put in as a family to make this happen, it’s just infuriating. They actually removed the bricks from around the cellar door to try and get through into it.”

The premises were locked up just after midnight on Saturday night. By the time owners Andy and Cath arrived to open up at 10.30am, the building had been ransacked.

Castleton Councillor Billy Sheerin said he is “absolutely gutted” to hear the news. He added: “I’ve spoken to several people and the collective reaction is one of anger and disgust.

“How someone can target a family business like this so quickly and so callously is beyond me and the people of Castleton. We have a strong community and here and people are just showing double support now, to show defiance they will back the pub even more.

“This lovely family has been working so hard to get the place up and running and to help bring the village back to life, and these selfish individuals come here with no regard for anyone except themselves. They are criminals and we don’t want criminals here. I hope the police find them and put them behind bars.”

Greater Manchester Police has warned local businesses to be vigilant. A spokesperson said: “Officers were called to the premises to the pub on Manchester Road, Castleton. Burglars entered through a back window which had been boarded up. Food, cash, the cash register and alcohol were stolen.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 4087, 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.