POLICE hunting for a knife attacker have pleaded with witnesses to come forward.

A 37-year-old woman was walking in Whitehall Street, Nelson, when a man grabbed her from behind, placed a hand over her mouth and held a knife to her in the terrifying attack.

He demanded money, and the woman handed over £20 in cash before he ran away, leaving her terrified.

But police have not managed to catch the man, and have made a renewed appeal for witnesses to the robbery, which occurred at 9.45pm on Monday August 6, to contact them.

The offender is described as white, possibly eastern European, of medium build, with short dark hair. He was wearing a dark-coloured top.

Detective Constable Rachel Brierley, who is leading the investigation, said: " We are anxious to catch this man because we cannot tolerated people being threatened like that on the streets of Pendle.

"I would like people to cast their minds back and think about whether they were in that area at that time, and if they saw anything suspicious.

"We are looking for anyone who can assist us with our inquiries - one call really can make a difference."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Nelson CID on 01282 472643, or Crimestoppers, free and confidentially, on 0800 555 111.