Man hit with wooden bar in attempted robbery on canal path

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

The canal path near Surma Close

A 25-year-old man was hit with a wooden bar, struck to the ground and kicked in the stomach by two men who attempted to rob him on the canal path near Surma Close on Elder Street on Tuesday (19 September).

The victim was walking along the canal path when he was approached by two men who asked for the time. As he looked down at his watch he was hit with a wooden bar. The offenders shouted abuse at the victim as he tried to balance himself after the blow.
He was then struck to the floor and kicked in the stomach.

The offenders tried to take the victim’s valuables and his dogs before running off down the canal path.

The victim was taken to hospital for treatment of the injuries he received to his face.

Police Constable Frances Pearson of GMP’s Rochdale Borough, said: “It is awful to think that this man has been attacked in broad daylight on a canal walk.

“The two men have left a man in hospital after attempting to take his valuables and beloved dogs.

“If you were in the area at the time and heard anything suspicious, then I am asking for you to please get in touch with police and share any details you have.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 795 of 190/09/17. This can be done anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.