POLICE have issued CCTV images of a man they want to speak to in connection with a robbery close to Saints Way Bridge.

A 22-year-old man had used the cash machine at Tesco at Langtree Park at around 10am on Monday (February 17) and was walking along the bridge when he was approached by another man.

The offender grabbed him around the neck and forced him to hand-over his mobile phone, a silver and yellow Samsung Galaxy 2 Mini, before walking back towards the stadium.

It is believed that the offender may have been with another youth who was riding a bike although the cyclist is not thought to have been involved in the incident in any way.

Detective Constable Roy Waller from St Helens CID said: "This was a nasty robbery which happened in broad daylight very close to St Helens town centre.

"The offender grabbed the collar of the victim's coat, leaving him fearing for his safety, and stole his phone before casually walking off.

"I'm sure everyone appreciates how inconvenient it is to have a mobile stolen, and I'd like to reassure the community in St Helens that we are doing everything we can to trace and arrest the person responsible.

"I'd appeal to people to take a really good look at the CCTV stills we have issued and get in touch if they recognise anything.

"I'd also urge the person seen riding a bike in the area to come forward and speak to us as they could have vital information which could help us with our inquiries."

People with information can contact St Helens CID on 0151 777 6038 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.