A schoolboy was punched and believed to be held at knifepoint in an attempted robbery.

A schoolboy was almost robbed as he was walking home after school on November 8 at around 3.30pm in Waveney Road, Harpenden.

The victim was approached by the suspect who asked him to hand over the bag. Once the victim refused the to cooperate, the suspect punched him in the face and the victim fell to the floor.

It is believed the suspect then took out a small knife.

The boy managed to flee the scene and a member of public intervened with the incident.

Detective Constable Krisztina Gulyas, of the St Albans Local Crime Unit, said: “I’m aware that some time has passed since this incident took place, but we’re just making sure we have exhausted all lines of enquiry.

“Despite attempts, we have so far been unable to identify the member of public who bravely stepped in.

“We’re hoping to identify them, as they may have vital information which could greatly assist out investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Gulyas directly via email at Krisztina.Gulyas@herts.pnn.police.uk.

You can report information online at herts.police.uk/report, via online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 41/101209/19.

If a crime is in progress or someone’s life is in danger, call 999 immediately.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report information online at crimestoppers-uk.org.