Police are appealing for witnesses following an attempted robbery in St Albans.

On January 29 at around 9.05pm a 38-year-old man was walking along Old London Road towards Sopwell Lane when he was approached by two men, who were walking in the opposite direction.

As they passed, the pair turned and followed the victim before cornering him in Sopwell Lane, where they demanded he hand over his property. The victim managed to run away and was followed for a short time before the offenders walked off towards Cottonmill Lane.

The offenders are described as two black males in their mid to late teens and were of a slim build.

Detective Constable Paul Cullinan said: "Firstly I would like to make a direct appeal to a woman who is not involved in the incident but stopped to check the victim was ok directly after. The only description of the lady that we have is that she had shoulder length blonde hair. If this was you please contact me.

"I would also appeal to anyone else was in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious to call with information."

Anyone with information should contact DC Cullinan via the Herts police non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number F1/14/340. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.