Police are trying to trace a cyclist who helped a store manager during a struggle with a suspected shoplifter in Shrewsbury.

The incident happened on the River Severn towpath alongside the river near the bottom of St Mary’s Water Lane at about 4.30pm on Wednesday.

Police Constable Kevin Roberts today said the shop manager had chased a woman suspected of shoplifting down the lane.
The worker had followed her for about 20 yards along the towpath before he caught up and detained her.

Constable Roberts said the manager had then been forced to appeal for help from a passer-by because the suspected thief was struggling.

“As he struggled with her he asked a man who was riding along the towpath for assistance, passing him his Shopwatch radio, asking him to call the police,” he added.

“After contact was made with the police, the cyclist rode off and I would ask him to please contact me at the Town Police Office on 08457 444888.

“He obviously saw what was happening and may be able to assist with inquiries.”

Constable Roberts said that the woman was later arrested on suspicion of shoplifting and given police bail pending further inquiries.

Anyone with information about the incident can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.