A security guard is in hospital with a suspected broken jaw and concussion after he was knocked out during an armed robbery in front of patrons at a pub in Sydney’s southwest.

Two men – one armed with a machete, the other with a tomahawk – walked into the Padstow pub on Thursday about 10.20pm and punched the guard from behind, knocking him unconscious, police said.

The pair, who both had their faces covered, demanded cash from the bar’s staff before fleeing from the scene.

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Staff and 15 customers have given witness reports to police.

Meanwhile, a man has been charged after allegedly forcing his way into a club in the Hunter Region armed with a sledgehammer and threatening staff.

The 28-year-old man fled the Telarah club after demanding cash from several staff members, but was later arrested and charged.

He has been refused bail to reappear in Newcastle Local Court next month.