A PUB landlord has hit out at violent visitors to Bromsgrove who have vandalised his venue on two consecutive weekends since the coronavirus lockdown restrictions were lifted.

Police have been called to Ye Olde Black Cross pub in Worcester Road two weekends running after reports of assaults on the premises.

In the latest incident, in the early hours of Saturday morning (July 11), landlord Joshua Matheson claimed both himself and another member of staff were set upon by unwelcome latecomers.

Police confirmed one teenager was arrested and that two men were injured during the incident as they appealed for witnesses to aid their investigation.

Licensee Joshua, however, is worried that the damage caused to the pub’s interior is superficial compared to that suffered by the pub’s reputation and that of the town centre overall.

He told the Advertiser: “The incident caused considerable damage to tables, chairs, a TV – and injuries were sustained by two members of staff, including myself.

“Our customers are really upset that the heritage of the pub has been defaced and they have rallied in support of myself and my staff as they consider this their safe place.

“In 12 months at Ye Olde Black Cross we have never had a violent attack – it is a terrible shame about the isolated incidents at our venue over the relaunch week.

“During lockdown, we spent thousands of pounds on the venue and made the Grade 2 listed building look beautiful.”

Joshua said Friday night’s incident stemmed from a group who chanced entry after closing by coming through a side door which had been left open for ventilation.

He added: “Unfortunately these isolated incidents from people, who are mostly not from the area, is having a negative effect on business.

“We would like to extend a warm welcome to our extended Bromsgrove community and know that we are a safe, friendly and community-orientated venue.

“After working in Bromsgrove’s night-time economy for seven years, it is really sad that these isolated events have tarnished both the oldest pub in town but also the town itself.”

West Mercia Police said one man suffered a head injury and another had a laceration on his arm after disorder broke out in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A 17-year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

Detective Inspector Sarah Squires, of West Mercia Police, said: “We were alerted to a disorder at the Ye Olde Black Cross Public House in Worcester Road, Bromsgrove that occurred overnight.

“Two men were injured and considerable damage caused to the premises.

“We are appealing for any information in particular any mobile phone videos or photos of the disorder that may help us with our investigation.”

Cops are ao investigating an unrelated assault at the pub on Saturday, July 4 at around 10pm.