TWO street robberies in Darwen – one in which a knife was brandished – are being investigated by police.

At 10am on Friday, a 26-year-old man was walking along Industry Street, Darwen, near the junction with Sandon Street, when he was approached by two men.

They demanded money before threatening him with a knife and making off with his wallet.

The second robbery was at 10.30pm on Friday.

Two boys aged 16 and 17 were walking along Norfolk Street where they were approached by a group of up to 10 youths who demanded property before assaulting them.

Police said the incidents were not being linked.

Det Sgt Ian Geogarty said: “Fortunately no one was seriously injured but the people involved were extremely shaken.”

One robber from the first incident was described as Asian, aged around 20, 5ft 9in and of medium build. He had short dark hair and wore a brown jumper and stonewash denim jeans.

The second was 5ft 7in and stocky. He wore a grey or silver shell material hooded top and black tracksuit trousers with white stripes.His face was described as ‘nasty and evil’.

The youths from the second incidents were Asian and aged 16-20.

Anyone with information should call police on 01254 353 841 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.