A SHOPLIFTER who was challenged by security staff from TJ Hughes in Curzon Street, Burnley, then attempted to stab the security guard with a needle.

The man had previously stolen two bottles of Calvin Klein Contradiction perfume from a shelf and had been stopped by security and then chased into Active Way.

The thief gave a name and gave back the stolen goods, but then tried to stab the security guard with a needle before running off.

The man is described white, aged 40, 5ft 7ins, tall, medium build, with short dark hair, he was going grey with a goatee beard, wearing tracksuit bottoms, white trainers and spoke with an Irish accent.

The incident happened on January 7 at 11.22am and anyone with information is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.