A LANDLORD suffered serious head injuries when he was attacked during a robbery on his pub. Police say a man went into the Rose and Crown in London Road, Sandy, at 10.15pm on Friday armed with what appeared to be a steel wrench and struck the landlord aro

A LANDLORD suffered serious head injuries when he was attacked during a robbery on his pub.

Police say a man went into the Rose and Crown in London Road, Sandy, at 10.15pm on Friday armed with what appeared to be a steel wrench and struck the landlord around the head and body with the heavy tool.

The man snatched a small amount of cash from the till before fleeing from the pub.

The landlord, bleeding heavily from his wounds, was helped by staff and customers until paramedics and police arrived.

He was rushed to Bedford Hospital South Wing where he underwent emergency surgery to stitch back an ear which had been severed in the attack.

He also suffered swelling to the brain, cuts to the head, a broken ankle and a fractured knee. Yesterday (Wednesday) his condition was described as stable.

Detectives investigating the attack had to wait more than 72 hours before they were able to interview him about the attack.

On Monday, scenes of crime officers were still at the pub which was closed over the weekend. The pub and the walkway outside were sealed off while the forensic investigation continued.

The pub, which is owned by Greene King, remains closed.

A spokesman for the brewery said: "The pub is closed while police continue their inquiries at the site.

"The licensee remains in hospital under observation but will be returning to the pub very soon. The pub is likely to re-open by the end of the week."

Police are still appealing for witnesses who might have been in the pub on Friday night and have not already come forward.

Anyone who was in the Rose and Crown or in the area at the time of the incident should contact the investigating officer Dc Hazel Taylor on 01234 275254.

o Following intense police inquiries, three men were arrested at an address in Potton on Sunday and taken to Bedford Greyfriars police station for questioning.

o On Tuesday morning brothers Albert Bibby, 21, and Nathan Bibby, 19, both of St Swithun's Way, Sandy, appeared before Bedford magistrates. Albert Bibby was charged with robbery and causing grievous bodily harm and Nathan Bibby with impeding the apprehension of an offender. Both men were remanded in custody until January 24 when they will appear before Luton Crown Court.

o The third man was released without charge but remains on unconditional bail.