Police are searching for three men involved in a violent armed robbery at an East Maitland hotel last night.
The trio entered the back door of the Hunter River Hotel in Melbourne Street at about 10.00pm armed with a baseball bat, knife and shotgun.
They threatened staff and the three remaining patrons, hitting one with the bat and pushing him to the floor.
The men stole money from the cash registers along with two purses from female staff members before escaping via the back door.
Central Hunter Police established a crime scene which has been examined by detectives and forensic officers.
Police say all three men had their faces covered.
Anyone with information which can assist detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
