Police are hoping to trace an heroic elderly man after he helped trap a knife-wielding robber who carried out a raid on a convenience store in Swinton.
At around 9.40am on Wednesday December 4, the thief burst into the P and H store on Bolton Road and threatened a shop assistant at knife point.
As he attempted to flee the scene the elderly man grabbed hold of the door and held it shut, forcing him to run upstairs and escape through a window.
He was then detained by the two men and several other members of the public outside on the street and later arrested.
Neighbourhood Inspector Dianne Errington said: “We really want to trace this man, to express our sincere thanks for his brave actions above everything else.
“Due to the number of other people who assisted in detaining the man he left the area prior to our arrival but we think he lives locally and would really like him to contact us.
“We are also keen to speak to others who were present and again assisted in detaining the man but left prior to our arrival.
“If you were there and haven’t spoken to us then please come forward and do so.”
Police attended and an 18-year-old man was arrested and subsequently charged with robbery.
Officers now want to trace the gentleman, who they believe lives locally, and thank him for his actions.
Police are also keen to speak to anyone else who was at the scene and has not yet spoken to the police.
If you think you know the man or witnessed the crime contact the police on 0161 856 5228.
Image courtesy of Google Maps, with thanks.
