A MAN fought off a would-be robber who tried to steal an envelope full of cash from him as he walked through Altrincham.

CCTV captured the incident, which took place at 1.15pm on June 17.

The 58-year-old victim had been to the bank and was walking along Victoria Street, heading towards his car, when he was grabbed from behind.

The offender tried to snatch the cash-filled envelope which was in the victim’s pocket.

The man grappled with his attacker and the pair fell to the floor.

He shouted for help and three men came to his aid, The robber then fled the scene and it is believed he got into a green Ford Mondeo on Stamford Street.

Police say the victim was left extremely shaken up by the incident.

The offender is described as slim, in his early 30s, about 5ft 8in tall and possibly Eastern European.

He was wearing a dark coloured suit and a black flat cap.

Police are appealing for anyone to come forward who has knowledge of the offender or any information about the vehicle.

Det Con Sonia Johnston, said: “The victim was almost at his car when the offender pounced, attacking him from behind and trying to steal his cash.

“There was a significant amount of money in the envelope that the offender soon realised would not be relinquished lightly and after members of the public intervened he quickly fled empty handed.

“I want people to look at the image of the suspect and if they recognise someone to please get in touch.

“Also, were you in the area and saw what happened or have information about the car? If so, I would like to hear from you.

“I doubt this was a spur of the moment incident, rather the victim has most likely been followed and deliberately targeted so I would urge people, if you are withdrawing large amounts of cash, please be as discrete as you can and conceal it in zip pockets or bags so that such items are not openly on display.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 7530, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.