A CLUB steward tried to escape from two armed men before being caught and taken back to the club to hand over the contents of the safe.

The incident happened at Newton Sports Club in Crow Lane East at about 11.10pm on Sunday as the steward was locking up. After locking the door the 54-year-old victim was confronted by two men, one armed with what is believed to be a handgun, and the other carrying a wooden staff.

The steward tried to run off, but the robbers caught up with him and took him back to the club where they forced him to open the safe. They then escaped with the contents of the safe, along with a quantity of spirits from the bar.

Police say the steward was left distressed but uninjured following the incident.

The two raiders both wore dark clothing and balaclavas and are described as being slim, about 5ft 10in tall and both spoke with local accents.

Anyone able to help the police with their inquiries can contact DC Mick Bowes at St Helens CID on 0151 777 6064, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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