Knifeman thanks his victims before stealing their cash

A man thanked a couple he robbed at knifepoint in a "terrifying" attack in Heywood.

A 17-year-old girl and her 18-year-old boyfriend were approached by a man as they walked on Mary Street on Tuesday afternoon (2 December).

He demanded cash, threatening to stab the man in the eye, before stealing the girl's purse, which she handed over after seeing a blade.

The robber then said, "thank you very much", before running off.

Pc Robert Smith, of the robbery unit at Rochdale Police Station, said: "This was a terrifying experience for this couple, who feared they would be stabbed.

"I'm appealing to anyone who might have seen what happened, or who knows is responsible, to call us. We will treat any information we need with total discretion."

The suspect is described as white, about 5ft 9in (1.7m) tall, aged about 23 or 24, and with either spots or acne scars on face. He spoke with a soft Irish accent.

Anyone with any information should call police on 0161 856 8632 or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously 0800 555 111.