Man sprayed in face with bleach in attempted robbery

The 44-year-old victim was walking in Little Houghton, when two men thought to be in their late teens — approached him on Middlecliff Lane.

They were both riding on a dark coloured mountain bike, wearing dark clothing and hoodies and had their faces covered. One was described as 5ft 10ins tall and the other slightly shorter. 

As the victim crossed the road — and the path of the offenders — the man at the back of the bike sprayed liquid in his face.

Det Sgt Ritchie Mason said: “The men are then said to have made demands for money and when the victim didn’t comply, they assaulted him with a sharp weapon, causing relatively minor cuts to his arm and leg.

“The victim was taken to hospital where he was treated for his injuries, which are not described as life-altering.”

Det Sgt Mason said the incident, at 7.45pm on Tuesday (21), was a priority for his team and witnesses were encouraged to come forward.

He added: “We are looking to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious around that time that night.  

“The area where the incident occurred is close to the end of a lane, where there are various access points for cyclists and walkers.  

“If you were in the area that night and saw the two men on the mountain bike, please get in touch with us. Information you have could prove helpful in identifying them.” 

If you can help, call 101 quoting incident 861 of November 21 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.