Detectives are appealing for information following a robbery in Warrington.
At around 8pm on Wednesday 25 May, a man was walking his dog on the footpath under the Howley suspension bridge when three youths approached him and asked the time.
The victim pulled his phone out his pocket to check, only to be struck in the face and his phone stolen.
The three youths, all male, then fled towards Howley Quay and Navigation Street.
They are described as all being aged around 16, on mountain bikes and wearing black sports clothing.
Two of the males had hoods up and face coverings on while the other is described as being of a thin build with blonde hair.
Officers are now appealing for anyone with information to get in touch with detectives.
Detective Constable Ian Prashar said: “Thankfully the victim sustained no serious injuries during this incident, but it does not bear thinking about what the alternative outcome may have been.
“Since the incident occurred, we have been conducting a number of enquiries in and around the area in a bid to track down those responsible.
“As part of these enquiries, we are also appealing to anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the incident and may have seen something that didn’t look quite right to get in touch.
“The same goes to anyone who has any information as to who may be responsible. We are doing all we can to bring these offenders to justice.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police quoting IML 1278439 via the Cheshire Police website or call 101.
Information can be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or via the Crimestoppers website.
