Caudwell raid probe reward offer

A £50,000 reward has been offered to help catch masked raiders who stole jewellery from the Shropshire border home of the founder of Phones 4U.

An insurance company has put up the reward for information which directly results in the conviction of offenders who raided the home of John Caudwell at Eccleshall, near Market Drayton.

A number of masked men broke into Broughton Hall in Eccleshall at about 8.30pm on November 1.

Mr Caudwell and his partner Claire Johnson were in the kitchen when the offenders burst through the door, police said. They left taking cash and jewellery.

An investigation by Staffordshire Police's Major Investigations Department continues.

Two men, 43 and 33, both from Liverpool, who were arrested in connection with the incident, remain on police bail pending further inquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Tim Martin said: "An insurance company has put up a substantial reward and we would appeal to anyone who has information to contact us. Images of some of the stolen jewellery have previously been issued, and can still be seen on the Staffordshire Police and Merseyside Police websites."

Police said the insurance firm, which has not been named, has said anyone who provides information which directly results in the conviction of the culprits, and the recovery of a substantial amount of Mr Caudwell's property will be in line for a £50,000 reward.

Call Staffordshire Police on 0300 123 4455 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.