POLICE are appealing for the public’s help to identify a man in connection with an attempted robbery in Bath earlier this month.

A man, in his mid-forties, was wheeling his bike away from Bath Railway Station when he was approached by an unknown male in Dorchester Street at around 7.30pm on Wednesday, January 14.

The unknown offender allegedly grabbed the victim by the arm and tried to kick him during the incident, in which a knife was also produced.

The victim said they managed to defend himself, causing the offender to fall to the ground, and recovered the bicycle before he left the scene.

The victim was not physically harmed but has been left distressed by the incident. High-visibility patrols were carried out after the incident, CCTV enquiries have been conducted, and statements have been taken while investigations continue.

Police are now at the stage where they are appealing to the public to help identify the man in the image who they believe may have information which could assist enquiries. He is described as a black man, around 6ft 1in-3ins tall, of slim build, who was dressed in black, wearing a face mask and a black hat.

PC Bethanie-Rose Ambrose, officer in the case, said: “Officers recognise that incidents involving violence and weapons in public places can cause concern in the community, and we want to assure residents the matter is being taken seriously and is being actively investigated.

“Additional patrols have been conducted in and around the area to maintain visibility, and officers are working to identify the suspect and are pursuing all reasonable lines of enquiry.

“Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and to report any information that may assist the investigation. The safety of the community remains a priority, and appropriate safeguarding and preventative measures will continue to be considered.”

If anyone can help, call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5226012538, or complete the online appeals form.

People can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and the informant will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.