Witness Appeal Following Hereford Robbery Attempt

Police in Hereford are appealing for a specific witness to come forward following an attempted robbery this morning. The incident occurred near the city centre on Wednesday 11 January.

At around 8.45am, as the victim - a 15-year-old girl - walked through the Newmarket Street subway towards the city centre two unknown men ran up behind her and barged her to the floor.

The fall caused the victim to drop her handbag and one of the men picked it up. The two men then made off towards the city centre.

A police spokesman said:

"Although the two men ran off, a male pedestrian walking in the opposite direction managed to trip up the man who was carrying the handbag. The pedestrian then wrestled the handbag off this man, which forced him to flee the scene on foot - with his accomplice - towards the city centre empty handed.

"Having secured the handbag the pedestrian then calmly returned it to the victim before leaving the scene once he was sure she was OK. However, the man did not leave his details with the victim and therefore police are now very keen to trace him to see whether he can provide any further details about the men responsible for this robbery.

"It goes without saying that police would also like to thank him for his bravery in coming to the victim's aid. Although very shaken, the victim suffered only a minor injury to her wrist as a result of this incident.

"The pedestrian in question - who is described as being white and in his mid 20s - is asked to contact police officers in Hereford as soon as possible.

"In addition, anyone else who believes they may have information about this incident is also asked to make contact with investigating officers quoting reference number 0034-N-110112.

"Anyone who believes they may have information about this robbery is asked to call officers in Hereford on 0300 333 3000.

"Alternatively, please remember that Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you'd rather leave information without getting directly involved yourself."

Issued: Wednesday 11 January 2012