POLICE are appealing for information following a series of robberies in Tameside in the early hours of this morning.

At around 3am this morning (Monday, February 17) a 45-year-old man was approached by two men on Lance Corporal Way, 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, Ashton.

He was pushed to the ground 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, 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.

Officers are treating the incidents as linked.

None of the victims were seriously injured.

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.

It is believed that the offenders were travelling in a red Ford Focus ST.

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.