Detectives are appealing for witnesses after an attempted robbery in Heysham.

Around 10.15pm on August 8, a 56-year-old man was walking his dog on Sandylands Promenade when he was approached from behind by another male.

The man threatened the victim with a rock, demanding his wallet.

When the 56-year-old man refused, a struggle started between the pair, resulting in the attacker wrapping the dog’s lead around the victim’s neck and tightening it.

The victim, who suffered bruising to his neck, called for help, forcing the attacker to make off towards Morecambe.

The offender is described as white, in his early 20s, 6ft 1in to 6ft 2in tall, of slim build with short brown hair and a pale complexion. He was wearing a white hoody with a black stripe in the hood, dark tracksuit bottoms and spoke with a local accent.

Det Con Sam Johnson, of Lancaster Police, said: “This incident was particularly shocking given the threat of violence and nature of the attack.

“The offender tried to use the dog’s lead to harm the victim and it was fortunate he was not more seriously hurt.

“I believe there were other people in the area at the time who may have witnessed something and we need to speak to them. 

“The victim was helped by a male who was on the Promenade after the attacker ran away. We want to speak to that person.

“Anyone with information is urged to contact police immediately.”

If you can help, contact police on 101 quoting crime reference WB1606358.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.