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Whitstable pub The Handsome Sam targeted by burglar

By: Lydia Chantler-Hicks

Published: 11:56, 17 June 2019

Updated: 12:49, 17 June 2019

A micropub has lost an entire week's takings following an early-morning raid captured on CCTV.

At about 4.30am on Friday an intruder - thought to have been a man acting alone - forced his way through a window at The Handsome Sam in Canterbury Road, Whitstable.

He fled with cash from the till, as well as a safe containing a mobile phone and all money taken by the pub that week.

CCTV footage from inside The Handsome Sam micropub. Pic: Chris Williamson

Landlord and manager Chris Williamson, who has given KentOnline images of the suspect, said: "It's difficult to say how much was taken, but all in all we think it was about £1,300.

"As far as we can tell, it was one person on his own.

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"The photos make him look quite big but I don't think he is because he managed to squeeze through steel bars on the window. He must have been wearing lots of layers.

Owner Chris Williamson at The Handsome Sam

"I was at home tucked up in bed when the break-in happened. It was only when I came in on Friday lunchtime to open up I realised what had happened."

Mr Williamson, 58, says the burglary will have a negative impact on the small pub - which has been open for about four-and-a-half years.

A burglar targeted The Handsome Sam in Whitstable on Friday. Pic: Chris Williamson

"We're not a big business - we're a micropub, so by definition we're just sort of making a small amount out of it," he said.

"It's near the beginning of the financial year, and you don't start making a profit until the end of the financial year.

CCTV footage of the incident. Pic: Chris Williamson (12466699)

"I employ a few people, and this does put you back. It's just not nice - it's really petty, and it leaves a sour taste really."

Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident, and are appealing for anyone with information to contact them on 01843 222289, quoting crime reference 46/114566/19.

A large amount of cash was swiped from The Handsome Sam micropub. Pic: Chris Williamson

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.

For the latest crime stories, click here

Read more: All the latest news from Whitstable

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