A HAVE-a-go cyclist nearly lost the sight of his right eye after tackling two armed robbers.

The attack took place just after 11pm on Thursday, September 11 after the 29-year-old victim had gone to the assistance of a shop owner who was chasing the two men. Earlier the pair had gone into Lesley's Chip Shop in Queensland Place, Thatto Heath, and snatched the till containing about £80 while the owner was in the back. But as they ran out, the owner saw them and chased after them towards nearby Kimberley Avenue.

It was here that the cyclist appeared on the scene and after talking to the shop owner he gave chase on his bike and finally caught up with the robbers near Hempstead Close where he confronted them. However, one of the robbers had a knife which he lashed out with, cutting the man on the forehead, narrowly missing his eye. The pair then ran off with the till while the cyclist was taken to Whiston Hospital where he received nine stitches above his right eye.

The robbers were both white, in their early 20s and between 5ft 10ins and 6ft tall. The one carrying the till was thin and wore dark clothing, while the man with the knife was stocky and wearing a T-shirt.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact DS Tommy Baines at St Helens CID on 0151 777 6064 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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