A PUB manager was battered and robbed by two masked men as he walked to his car.

The attack took place at 2.30pm, on Monday, in the car park of The Barnes pub, Durham Road, Sunderland.

Two crooks, believed to be men, wearing ski masks, hit the manager with a blunt weapon and snatched a large amount of cash.

They escaped in a blue Vauxhall Astra or Ford Escort van with reflective film on the back windows.

Shortly before 3pm a blue Escort van, which police believe may have been used in the robbery, was found burning in nearby Otto Terrace.

This vehicle and the manager's car were yesterday being examined for forensic evidence.

The manager was recovering from head and facial injuries.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the attack and for anyone who saw the van, registration G985 TFT, being set alight. They also want information on the van's whereabouts and who has been using it during the past three months.

A robbery board carrying details of the attack is on display outside The Barnes to encourage people to come forward for information. The board has been used successfully by the Metropolitan and Greater Manchester forces.

To help, contact Sunderland City CID on 0191-454 7555, extension 66659