Man arrested over robberies in Denton and Ashton

A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery, in connection with a series of robberies in Tameside in the early hours of Monday morning (February 17). 

Greater Manchester Police say enquiries are still ongoing. 

At around 3am, a 45-year-old man was approached by two men on Lance Corporal Andrew Breeze Way in Denton.

The men tripped up the victim, before hitting him over the head with a metal bar and stealing his phone.

At around 4.20am this morning, two men approached a 75-year-old man on West Street in Ashton. 

He was pushed to the floor and punched in the face. They stole a metal dog lead from him.

At around 4.40am, an attempted robbery took place on Gas Street in Ashton. 

A 70-year-old man was stood at a bus stop when he was approached by two men, one of whom was holding a knife.

They demanded the man’s cash before a passer-by shouted at them, causing them to flee.

None of the victims were seriously injured.

Police are treating the incidents as linked.

The two offenders are described as black, one of whom is around 5ft 11ins tall. They were wearing partial face coverings and dark clothing.

It is believed one was carrying a knife and that the offenders were travelling in a red Ford Focus ST.

Police say no further description of the offenders is currently available.

Detective Constable Darren Byrne said: “The offenders are cowardly opportunist thieves, who have targeted two elderly people during these incidents.

“Thankfully, the victims of these crimes escaped with only minor injuries.

“We are treating these three incidents as linked and would appeal to anyone with information to contact police.

“Were you in the area at the time, or perhaps you have dash-cam footage that can assist our enquiries? If so, please get in touch.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 3504 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

* Story updated: 18 February at 11.15am