POLICE are appealing for the public's help in catching two young thugs who robbed a Congleton pensioner of £200.

The 78-year-old was walking home at about 10pm when he was stopped by two young men.

He was held by one while the other searched him, and took his wallet, which contained £200 in cash.

They then fled, and the pensioner fell to the ground, cutting his knee.

"The man had been to the pub, and was walking in the direction of Park Lane when he was stopped by the youths in Townsend Road,'' said PC Lee Cooper.

"We believe the robbery took place no later than 10 o'clock at night, although the man has a very poor memory, and could be confused about the time and day it happened.''

Police believe the man was robbed on Thursday or Friday night, and any witnesses to the incident or anyone who thinks they can help the police are asked to ring Congleton police station on 01260-271144.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.