Masked raid on jewel firm

Masked men targeted a Shropshire jewellery makers, attacking two men and leaving them needing hospital treatment during a robbery today.

Staff were turned away from Curteis of England, also known as Curteis Chains, at Dudleston near Ellesmere, by police today as an investigation was launched. Police say it is believed that three or four masked men were involved in the incident.

It happened between 7.15am and 7.45am.

Richard Ewels, a spokesman for West Mercia police, said two men – thought to be employees of Curteis Chains – were taken to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for treatment for cuts and bruises after being struck by the robbers.

"They are not thought to be seriously injured," he said.

The robbers fled from the factory in a car. A police helicopter was called in to help with the search for the vehicle and police forces on both sides of the English and Welsh border were alerted.

It is not yet known whether the men were armed or what was stolen from Curteis Chains, which has been in the area for more than 30 years and is one of Britain's largest jewellery manufacturers.

"Checks are still being made to establish what has been stolen," Mr Ewels said.

"Police are conducting a full investigation and are appealing for any information which may be related to the incident."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Shrewsbury police station on 0300 3333 000 or on the Crimestoppers number, 0800 555111.

The company employs about 90 staff. Employees were turned away from work today by police officers who had set up a cordon.

Curteis Chains was set up in 1975 by Roger Curteis in the Dudleston area when he turned his jewellery hobby into a career.

It has grown to be one of the UK's largest and most recognised quality jewellery manufacturers run by Mr Curteis and his sons.

Despite being one of the area's largest employers it has retained a low profile in the area.

Nationally the company won the UK Jewellery Manufacturer of the Year Award in 1995 and has been a frequent finalist.

In 1997, the company name was changed to Curteis of England to reflect its move into the international market.

By Sue Austin