BOTTLES of booze were snatched by thieves who broke into a Bottesford pub.

The Black Beauty, on Keddington Road, was targeted by crooks who forced doors at the venue, then grabbed bottles of vodka and rum.

Landlord John Martin said despite damage to his pub and the missing alcohol he had been 'lucky'.

"They didn't really get much, only about three bottles, some Smirnoff and Bacardi, I've been very, very lucky, he said.

"Even though they didn't get much I've upped security, they wouldn't get in now, I've strengthened locks and doors– I've done quite a bit.

"I did get off lightly, but I'm not letting it happen again– the Scenes of Crime officers have been round and they were quite pleased because everything is well secured."

The break-in happened overnight on December 10, although an exact time has not yet been pin-pointed.

Mr Martin issued a warning to other publicans over suspicious phone calls he had received prior to the theft.

"A member of staff took a call from someone asking to be the police, asking us security questions– when we asked the police about it they didn't know anything, it's very suspect," he cautioned.

The incident is under police investigation and officers have appealed for anyone who witnessed anything, or has information, to contact them.

Anyone who can help should contact police on 0845 60 60 222 or speak anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.