CCTV pictures of robbers' ambush

Detectives today released more CCTV images which show masked robbers carrying out a violent raid on a Shropshire jewellery business in which members of staff were ambushed, tied up and beaten.

Police have also issued several images of the gang's getaway vehicle parked at Curteis Chains Ltd in Dudleston, near Ellesmere, and as it sped away from the premises, in the hope of jogging people's memories.

Four masked men armed with baseball bats carried out the robbery between 7am and 8am on July 22.

They lay in wait for the firm to open, ambushing staff as they arrived for work. Four employees were tied up and two needed hospital treatment after being badly beaten.

Detective Inspector Mick Homden, senior investigating officer, said: "The investigation is still very much ongoing and we've released the CCTV images in the hope they will jog people's memories."

The pictures show gang members making a search inside the premises and also their silver Audi A4 estate vehicle parked outside and then driving off. The men were at the firm for around 45 minutes before leaving with a quantity of goods.

Their Audi was spotted minutes later at 8.09am being driven erratically and dangerously through Ellesmere out of town towards The Mere.

"We are not certain of its direction of travel after that. It's possible the offenders are from outside the Shropshire area and appeared to be a well-organised, professional gang," said Mr Homden.

"It's important that any possible sightings of the vehicle should be reported to Shrewsbury police station on 0300 333 3000, either in the Dudleston area prior to the attack or as the vehicle fled the scene.

"I would also urge anyone who might have seen a silver Audi parked up in the locality for some time before the robbery, or indeed, since the incident.

"Furthermore, the robbers are likely to have previously reconnoitred the premises, so we would like to hear from anyone who spotted suspicious activity in the area during the previous weeks leading up to July 22.

"Any information, however insignificant it may seem, should be forwarded. Our investigations are continuing. This was a serious incident involving a high level of violence and we would welcome any information which might help us trace these people."

Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.

By Deborah Collins