Thieves target Lymington pub twice during lockdown

A POPULAR Lymington pub has been forced to step up its security after twice being targeted by thieves in the early days of the Covid-19 lockdown.

Metal sheeting was erected across the front of The Six Bells in St Thomas Street in the wake of the incidents, prompting operators JD Wetherspoon to dismiss speculation it was permanently closing.

The premises was first targeted on Monday 23rd March – three days after the government ordered all pubs, restaurants and cafés to close.

Two men were seen trying unsuccessfully to break in through the rear doors at around 2.15pm before fleeing when the alarm went off. They were described as both white, in their 20s, wearing denim jeans, black hoodies with the hoods up and dark trainers.

Then shortly before 1am on 29th March, entry was gained via the rear doors and two fruit machines were smashed open.

A police spokesperson said: “There was no money in the machines, which had been emptied before the pub had closed due to the lockdown period.”

People are being urged to come forward if they saw any suspicious activity as investigations into the incidents continue. Contact 101, quoting crime reference number 44200113803, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.