A MAN was punched and wrestled to the ground during a robbery in the town centre.

The 20-year-old victim was attacked by an unknown assailant on Bold Street at around 3.45pm yesterday, Monday.

He was walking from Wilson Patten Street and was near to the junction with St Austin’s Lane and Museum Street when he was approached from behind by another man.

This male then punched him in the head and wrestled him to the ground, but failed to grab the victim’s bag before stealing his e-cigarette.

The offender then fled back in the direction of Wilson Patten Street.

He is described as being white, around 6ft tall and between 29 years and was wearing a black North Face coat with the hood up, grey tracksuit bottoms and dark trainers.

The victim suffered minor head injuries during the incident and did not require medical attention.

Detective constable Jill Peggs said: “The victim has understandably been left extremely shaken up following this frightening incident.

“I would like to reassure residents that it is believed to be an isolated incident, and we are stepping up patrols in the area as a result of the robbery – I would also like to reassure the community that we are doing everything we can to catch the offender and bring him to justice.

“Enquiries are ongoing, and as part of our investigation we are appealing for anyone with any information or footage regarding the robbery to get in touch with the team here at Warrington Police Station.

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“We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was driving along Bold Street and had to stop their vehicle as a result of the offender having pulled the victim onto the road.

“Perhaps those motorists or others driving in the area have dashcam footage of the offender.

“We also want to talk to anyone who recognises the description of the offender and believes that they may know who he is.

“If you think that you can aid our investigation in any way please come forward.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number IML 393901, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.