Hunt for knifeman mugger

As the teenager made his way to a Co-op store on Main Street around 2.30pm on August 11, he noticed a male youth, aged about 18, following him.

This male was white, slim build, wearing a black jacket with the hood over his head and had a black scarf across his face with a clearly visible cannabis leaf motif on the front.

A female, described as white, 15-years-old, slim build with black, long shoulder length hair and wearing a white top over black leggings, was walking with the suspect.

The victim said he entered the store and when leaving a short time later realised that the same male was closely following him.

He stopped to ask if there was anything he could help the youth with and the male removed a small blade from his pocket and demanded that the victim empty his pockets.

It is alleged that when the victim said he did not have any money, the unknown offender became more aggressive and punched the victim in the face.

The victim ran from the scene, back towards the Co-op while the youth continued to walk away along Aughton Road.

The victim suffered minor bruising and has been left shaken and distressed by this incident.

He described the small blade as having a distinctive five-inch white plastic handle.

Police say it appears to be a one-off incident, although if anyone else has been approached or attacked by someone matching the description of the unknown youth and has yet to contact the police, they are encouraged to do so straight away.

An elderly man was seen in the area at the time of the incident and may have witnessed what happened. Officers would like this person to contact them to discuss what they may have seen.

Anyone with information should contact Det Con Dean Godfrey on: 01709 832 261 or email: [email protected]. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111.