Man attacked near Rochdale Canal

Victim treated for facial injuries

Published 2nd Oct 2017

Police are appealing for information after an attempted robbery on Rochdale Canal.

At around 10.45am on Tuesday 19 September 2017, police were called to reports of an attempted robbery on the canal path near Surma Close on Elder Street.

A 25-year-old man had been walking along the canal path when he was approached by two men.

One of the men asked for the time and as the victim looked down at his watch, the other man hit him with a wooden bar.

These men then shouted abuse at the victim as he tried to balance himself after the blow.

He was then struck to the floor by one of the offenders, who began kicking the man in the stomach.

The men have the run off down the canal path, trying to take the man’s valuables and his dogs.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment of the injuries he received to his face.

Police Constable Frances Pearson of GMP’s Rochdale Borough, said: “It’s awful to think that this man has been attacked in broad daylight on a canal walk.

“The two men have left a man in hospital after attempting to take his valuables and beloved dogs.

“If you were in the area at the time and heard anything suspicious, then I’m asking for you to please get in touch with police and share any details you have.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 795 of 190/09/17. This can be done anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.