DETECTIVES launched a major investigation after a robbery at a town centre pub early today.

Police surrounded the Wheatsheaf Hotel in Mincing Lane, Blackburn, shortly after 2am.

The area was cordoned off from revellers who were leaving pubs and clubs in the surrounding area.

Police said the licensee of the pub was taken to Blackburn Royal Infirmary with minor injuries but was not believed to be seriously injured in the incident.

A sign above the door of the pub says the licensee is Graham Jones.

A worker at a nearby taxi office said that police had cordoned off the pub early today and a forensic team was at the scene until about 5.30am.

Inspector Andy Pratt, of Blackburn police, said: "We are investigating an incident believed to be a robbery at the Wheatsheaf public house.

"The investigation is still in its early stages and we are still trying to find out exactly what happened. There were some minor injuries to the licensee but there was no one seriously hurt.

"There was some money stolen from the safe but we are still trying to find out exactly what property has been taken."

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