JULIE and Tony Snook were feeling on top of the world because they are emigrating to the Canary Islands but the theft of £5,500 from their pub has dampened their spirits.

The couple have been running the Plough Inn in Highworth for five years and enjoyed every minute of it.

So the burglary, which occurred as landlady Julie was cashing up yesterday morning struck a massive blow to their plans.

Julie, 52, said: "It's devastating. We had a fantastic send off over the jubilee weekend. Then someone spoils it by swiping all our takings. I'm speechless."

The thief escaped with the stash of cash, which had been left sitting on Julie's bed, while she went to the toilet. Entrance was gained by ascending the fire escape and climbing through an open window.

Julie and Tony, 53, were due to take off for their place in the sun today.

But police investigations into the theft meant they could not move their cases or leave the pub.

"I still can't believe it," said Julie. "Everything was going brilliantly then suddenly we are plunged into this nightmare."

"It is an insult to all our staff who worked extremely hard over the bank holiday weekend to give everyone a good time."

Now even more determined to vacate the country, Julie and Tony cannot wait to sun themselves and enjoy a more leisurely lifestyle.

Julie hopes to get work as a nanny, while Tony will see what happens when he gets over there.

But they will be making regular returns to the Plough Inn, which is being taken over by their daughter, Tina.

Tina, 30, will be pulling pints with her partner, Anton Starling and hopes keep the family pub tradition fighting strong.

Tina said: "Despite the burglary, we're determined to soldier on and keep serving our regulars. We're looking forward to the challenge, so it's business as usual."