Robber admits armed attack on millionaire

A 21-year-old man today admitted his part in a terrifying armed raid by three masked men at the luxury home of a millionaire businessman and his fiancée on the Shropshire border.

Nathan McDonald, of Merridale Street West, Wolverhampton, was one of three masked men who raided the home of businessman Richard Barnfather and fiancée Deborah Leadbetter.

The couple were tied up, threatened and beaten by the men, armed with a gun, in Lower Rudge, near Pattingham, on March 9.

The gang stole jewellery worth £50,000, two mobile phones and three top-of-the-range cars – an Aston Martin, a Mercedes and Range Rover, thought to be worth a combined £300,000, which were found within a few hours in Tipton, Smethwick and Wolverhampton.

The haul of jewellery included a £25,000 diamond-encrusted engagement ring belonging to Miss Leadbetter, 37, as well as Cartier and Breitling watches.

McDonald admitted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm when he appeared at Shrewsbury Crown Court today.

Judge Robin Onions adjourned the case for a report and warned McDonald to expect a long custodial sentence.

Two men, aged 48 and 17, arrested in connection with the robbery and remain on police bail while inquiries continue.