Staff at a city pub have suffered a festive blow after the boozer was burgled and their hard-earned Christmas tips were stolen.

The theft took place at The Black Horse, in Earlham Road, where "thousands" of pounds worth of tips and company takings were pilfered.

Rose Hanison has owned the pub since 2015 and found out about the theft on Boxing Day when the pub's manager realised the money was not in its usual secure location.

Eastern Daily Press: Police say the theft took place between December 24 - 26Police say the theft took place between December 24 - 26 (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)

Rose, 38, said: "Thousands has been stolen, it's absolutely devastating for all of us.

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"I live above the pub and have been told there was evidence the person also accessed my home, which makes me feel violated and vulnerable.

"My staff are so upset, especially this time of the year when tips are extremely important for them and a reward for how hard they work.

Eastern Daily Press: There was thousands stolen from the pub some time over the festive periodThere was thousands stolen from the pub some time over the festive period (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)

"There were also donations from customers, to the staff, to use for our end-of-year party - which is terrible.

"I've had to spend £700 getting the locks changed and upgrading the CCTV at the pub.

"We're trying to stay positive and we hope to finish the year on a high but it's left everyone feeling very sad.

Eastern Daily Press: Rose Hanison, 38, has owned The Black Horse since 2015Rose Hanison, 38, has owned The Black Horse since 2015 (Image: Archant)

Rose added that police officers and forensic investigators had attended the scene to begin the burglary probe.

A police spokeswoman said: "We can confirm a burglary at the Black Horse, in Earlham Road, was reported to police on December 27.

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"The burglary took place between December 24 and 26 and is still under investigation at this time."

Eastern Daily Press: The Black Horse pub, in Earlham RoadThe Black Horse pub, in Earlham Road (Image: Denise Bradley, Newsquest)

After posting on Instagram appealing for any information from those who live near the NR2 pub and restaurant, Rose said the support from customers has been "overwhelming".

"We've received some strong eyewitness reports and I appreciate everyone who's come forward to help," she added.

"So things are looking more positive and we hope to push forward to a better 2024."

Eastern Daily Press: Rose says everyone is devastated after the incidentRose says everyone is devastated after the incident (Image: Newsquest)