Police quiz man after attack on Phones4U boss John Caudwell

A 48-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a break-in at the home of former Phones4U chief John Caudwell, who lives near Market Drayton.

Billionaire Caudwell and his partner Claire Johnson, were at home in Broughton Hall, near Eccleshall, when masked raiders burst into his mansion, stealing cash and jewels on Monday night.

Mr Caudwell suffered a gash to his head after being attacked with a crowbar.

His partner and a female staff member were also assaulted.

Staffordshire Police today said the suspect was detained in Liverpool yesterday in connection with the raid.

In a statement last night, Mr Caudwell condemned the men's actions as brutal.

He said: "On Monday evening at 8.15pm a group broke into my home and burst into the kitchen. In attempting to defend myself and my family, I was attacked by a man with a crowbar.

"I suffered a gash to my forehead, to my elbow and damage to my other arm and my back. They took every item of jewellery that Claire and I possessed, plus some cash.

"Thankfully, nobody else was hurt physically, although no doubt the shock of the event and the brutal actions and language of the attackers will live on for some time."

Mr Caudwell has become well-known for his work with Caudwell Children, a charity that provides specialist equipment, treatment and therapies for sick, autistic and disabled youngsters across the UK.