POLICE have tracked down a window cleaner who chased away youths after an attempted mugging of a woman in her 60s.

Detectives had appealed for information after two attempted robberies of women in Haydock.

Three boys approached a woman in her 70s outside of Evin’s Diner on Branch Way, Haydock shortly after 12.30pm on Monday afternoon, May 20 and asked for directions.

One of the youths grabbed the pensioner’s handbag and, following a struggle, they ran off towards Grange Valley Road, leaving the bag behind.

Then shortly afterwards, at around 12.45pm, three youths approached a woman in her 60s in Grange Valley and made threats and demands for cash.

No weapon was seen and the victim refused to hand anything over, and walked off.

Following the incident, a local window cleaner called 'John' is believed to have assisted by chasing the youths away. Detectives appealed to trace the "Good Samaritan" who they believed may have vital information assist the investigation.

Merseyside Police has now confirmed they have traced 'John' and that the investigation is continuing to find the youths responsible.

In the first offence, the offender who approached the victim is described as around 15 years of age, 6ft 1in, with dark short hair. Police say enquiries are ongoing to obtain descriptions of the other suspects.

Detective Chief Inspector Craig Sumner said: “To target lone females and threaten and attempt to steal from them in the street is absolutely abhorrent and I would urge anyone who knows who these youths are to do the right thing and come forward."

Anyone with information can contact @MerPolCC , call 101 with reference numbers 19100255691 (Branch Way) and 19100258293 (Grange Valley) or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.