Appeal for information to an attempted robbery in Widnes

Detectives investigating an attempted robbery in Widnes are appealing for members of the public to come forward with information.

At 7.30am on Sunday 1 August a 73-year-old woman was walking along the canal path, away from the Spike Island car park and towards the flyover to the Mersey Gateway Bridge.

A man approached her and asked for the time before grabbing her coat and dragging her to the floor.

He demanded she hand over her money and purse and tried to grab a plastic bag she was holding.

Another man who was fishing saw what had happened and shouted to the suspect.

He then ran off in an unknown direction and is described as white, 6’ tall, very thin build with very short or shaved hair. He is believed to be aged in his 30s and was wearing a jacket.

The woman sustained minor injuries which didn’t require medical treatment.

Detective Constable Nicola Dolan, from Widnes Local Policing Unit, said: “The victim was understandably left shaken by this incident and we have been conducting numerous enquiries to identify the man.

“As part of our enquiries I am appealing to anyone who may have CCTV footage or information that could assist with the investigation to please get in touch.”

If you have information please call Cheshire Constabulary on 101 quoting IML 1051265 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.