21/12/2010

Park Avenue Hotel Robbers Slammed

A daring robbery that took place in broad daylight at an east Belfast hotel has been condemned by a local politician.

Alliance East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle has slammed the robbers for the attack at the Park Avenue hotel on Monday morning.

He said: "This was a cowardly crime committed against a family run business in broad daylight in a very busy part of east Belfast.

"I am shocked and disgusted at those responsible for this robbery," he said, after the four masked men threatened staff before making off with a large sum of money.

The police said the four men were also wearing workmen's florescent jackets as they entered the Park Avenue on the Holywood Road at about 9.30am on Monday.

They threatened staff before escaping through the back of the building with the money.

The PSNI said that a white four-door Vauxhall Corsa car may have been used by the robbers, police added and they have appealed for witnesses to contact them.

The MLA also said: "If anybody has any information about this robbery then they should contact the police.

"My thoughts are with those staff who were caught up in the robbery. I hope they are able to get over their ordeal.

"With Christmas around the corner, this should be a joyful time for staff at the hotel but now thanks to these thugs they are trying to get over this harrowing experience."

(BMcC/GK)

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