Man charged after Battle jewellers raid

Two men robbed Friar House Antique Jewellers in Battle High Street at 11am on Friday, stealing high value jewellery.

William Smith, 30, of Tenterden Road, Golford, Cranbook, in Kent, was arrested and later charged with burglary with intent to steal and appeared at Hastings Magistrates' Court on Saturday.

He was remanded in custody until September 23 (Thursday).

A 21-year-old man from Hawkhurst in Kent was also arrested in connection with the robbery and has been released on bail until September 26.

Chief Inspector Heather Keating, district commander, said: "I would like to commend the bravery of the shop staff and members of the public who intervened.

"The suspects were arrested quickly.

"I would also like to reassure people that crimes of this type are unusual in Battle.

"Our neighbour policing teams will be patrolling in the area to provide reassurance and I would urge anyone with information to talk to them."

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 quoting Operation Swanland.