POLICE are hunting a teenager after a "substantial amount" of cash was taken from a shopkeeper on his way to the bank.

Detective Sergeant Mark Rothwell, of Accrington CID, said the 62-year-old shop owner left his general store, on the corner of Victoria Street, Church, shortly after 10.50am yesterday.

As he was getting into his car he was grabbed from behind by the youth who snatched his rucksack containing weekend takings.

The teenager, aged 16 or 17, fled down York Street towards Henry Street.

DS Rothwell said the khaki Camel Traveller rucksack which contained the takings could have been discarded nearby.

He said: "If anybody does come across the rucksack, which is quite distinctive, I would ask them to contact the local police who will seize it as use for evidence."

The offender was described as a white male, slim and a dark grey 'deer stalker' type hat with the ears tied up.

He wore a dark jacket, with grey on the shoulders, dark trousers and white trousers.

If anybody has any information they should contact Accrington CID on 01254 353741 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.