Bank ATM customer robbed at knifepoint in Wem

The male resident in Wem had been to a bank ATM in the town when he was grabbed from behind by the offender.

Police say the offender appeared to be carrying a steel bladed knife and demanded money.

He then took a quantity of cash in a brown envelope.

Police have been quick to reassure people they believe it was an isolated incident where the victim was targeted.

It happened after the resident had been to the bank in high street, and was walking towards Pyms Road, along Drawwell Lane, at about 3pm on Friday.

The offender is described as white, in his 30s, of medium build, 6ft tall and wearing a hooded dark jacket.

Anne Tugwell, spokeswoman for West Mercia Police, said she was appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

She added: "West Mercia Police is investigating a report of a robbery which happened on a footpath.

"A 35-year-old man was grabbed from behind by another man who threatened him with a knife and stole cash from him.

"The offender is described as a white man in his thirties, slim to medium build, 6ft tall with stubble on his face.

"He was wearing a dark coloured hooded top with the hood up and dark coloured Adidas tracksuit bottoms.

"Officers investigating the incident would like to hear from anyone who saw a man matching the description of the offender in the area or has any information about the incident.

"This was an isolated incident but we would remind members of the public of the need to protect themselves when they are out and about."

Police Constable Dave Carpenter, based at Wem Police Station, added: "This is an extremely rare and hopefully isolated event.

"It appears to have been targeted at the individual and the general public should not be overly concerned."

Anyone with information should call call police on 101, quoting incident 426S of February 17.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.