SECURITY has been stepped up at a management training school after thieves tied up and beat a night porter in a brutal robbery.

The incident took place at the Missenden Abbey Management Training Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, when the porter noticed a vehicle parked near one of the lecture theatres.

He went to investigate and disturbed two men outside the building which had been broken into. The men tied him up and the keys to the safe were taken from him.

He was then made to stay in the lecture theatre by one of the men while the other went to the safe.

The attack has shaken staff at the centre, which is part of the Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College, and Linda Cox, Centre Director, said everyone was being very supportive.

She added: "We have stepped up security since the event. It's the first time anything like this has happened here.

"There is quite a family thing here and everyone is very supportive of each other. Everybody was shocked when it happened."

The thieves made off with some cash and a stereo in a vehicle described as about the size of a Ford Sierra.

The porter managed to free himself and raise the alarm.

The offenders are described as white, in their late twenties and about 5ft 9in tall. One was of slim build, with short dark hair and was wearing a dark coloured tracksuit top.

The other is described as being of stocky build with stubble, and was wearing a bandana on his head and a light coloured tracksuit top.

The porter sustained cuts and bruises but did not need hospital treatment.

If you have any information call DC Rob Williams on 01494 465888