Terror as armed yobs go on pub rampage

HOODED youths, one with a gun, brought terror to a pub in Failsworth.

The group of 12 armed men ran into the Forresters Arms in Oldham Road, Failsworth, shouting at those inside.

The gang caused extensive damage inside the pub and assaulted a man and woman. Neither received serious injuries.

The gang was armed with various weapons, including baseball bats and hammers. A handgun was also seen but wasn’t fired.

The attackers, who were all wearing masks, then escaped.

A passing motorist raised the alarm. He said: “I was stopped at lights and saw a gang.

“There must have been 20 and they were in in dark clothing, hooded youths. Some weren’t any more than 12.

“A lad came flying out of the pub covered in blood with such violence that he rolled into the road, in front of a bus which managed to stop.

“Then I heard a boom, boom and saw baseball bats. They were smashing glass.

“I drove to Failsworth police station to use the phone outside, and another lady stopped who was very distressed.”

Det Cons Ian Webb, from Oldham CID, said: “This was an extremely terrifying incident for all those inside the pub.

“I would like to reassure residents that incidents such as this are extremely rare and we are working hard to trace those responsible.

“However, I would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed what happened or who knows who might be responsible.”

Anyone with any information about the incident just after 7pm on Monday is asked to call Oldham CID on 0161-856 8951, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.