Man arrested over illegal pub betting in Tenbury Wells

A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of organising illegal gambling at a pub in Tenbury Wells.

Police detained the man after carrying out a search of the Vaults pub on Teme Street yesterday morning. It came after a tip-off from a member of the public that bets were being taken at the premises.

The pub was searched by officers and items including mobile phones and betting slips were seized.

The man was interviewed by police and released on bail while investigations continue.

Sergeant Sarah Kent, of West Mercia Police confirmed police had raided the pub. She said: "A man in his 40s was arrested in connection with the incident.

"He has been released on police bail while we continue our inquiries into this allegation.

"We entered the pub at around 9.30am yesterday and have seized a number of items, including mobile phones and what appear to be betting slips and records.

"This is an unusual case and we are working closely with the Gambling Commission, who are assisting us with our investigation into this matter."

A spokesman for the Gambling Commission said: "We were pleased to lend our support and expertise to West Mercia Police in this operation. Working with our local partners is central to our approach to keeping gambling fair and safe."

No-one from the Vaults was available for comment.

Anyone who suspects betting is taking place illegally can report details to the Gambling Commission's confidential intelligence telephone line on (0121) 230 6655 or directly to West Mercia Police on the non-emergency number 101.

By Peter Kitchen