POLICE are hunting for thugs who threatened a man with a wooden stick before snatching his wallet as he walked behind the NatWest bank in Bridge Street, Newton-le-Willows.

The 27-year-old man, had parked his car in Princess Street a about 2.30pm on Monday, April 21, and was cutting through a car park when a man grabbed him from behind and shoved him up against a parked car.

The man then threatened him with an 18-inch long wooden stick and demanded his wallet, while a second man looked on.

The victim handed over the wallet, containing £60, and the thugs then ran to a black B-registered Metro, driven by a third man, which was parked at the junction of Queen Street and Princess Street.

As the car sped away, the victim attempted to follow them in his own car, but lost them as they headed towards Earle Street.

The first man, who was aged about 24, is described as white, 6ft tall, of slim build, clean shaven with mousy, wavy hair. He wore a yellow and blue checked shirt and jeans.

The second man, who was in his late teens, was 5ft 10 in tall, of slim build with dark-brown hair and prominent cheekbones. He wore a bright red jacket and dark-blue jeans.

ANYBODY with information is urged to call DS Baines at St Helens CID on 0151 777 6053 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

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