KNIFE-WIELDING thugs left a victim with cuts to his arm after attempting to rob him as he visited a cash machine.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the attack which happened as the man was at the Lloyds TSB in Hoole Road, Hoole, just before 7pm on Monday (January 5).

Two male offenders, wearing hoods and dark coats, fled empty-handed down an adjacent alleyway by the Beehive pub in the direction of Walker Street. The victim, who has given a statement, suffered superficial cuts and was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Police sealed off the area while forensic experts looked for clues.

Police spokeswoman Rachel Hayes said: “Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the same time, who may have seen anything, to contact us.”

It is believed a bus slowed down at the time of the incident and passengers may have seen what took place. CCTV footage is also being examined.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Constable Steve Bellis of Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.