Police patrols in Preston city centre are being stepped up after two robberies.

The incidents in Tithebarn Street and Church Street saw a 17-year-old threatened with a knife and an 18-year-old hit in the back of the head by balaclava wearing teenagers.

Preston Police said the first robbery took place in Tithebarn Street at 9.15pm on Tuesday (29 August).

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A 17-year-old boy was approached from behind by two teenagers dressed in black and wearing balaclavas.

One of them threatened the boy with a knife and stole his Carrerra e-spec bike. The offenders fled in the direction of Preston Market.

A second robbery, at 2.55am on Wednesday (30 August) saw an 18-year-old man hit on the back of the head when he was walking along Church Street. He had a chain and watch stolen.

DI Simon Gray, of Preston CID, said: “These are two appalling attacks committed against two young victims. Although they were not seriously injured, they have been left understandably shaken.

“I would ask witnesses or anyone who has CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage capturing either incident or people wearing face coverings in the area around those times to contact the police as soon as possible.”

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Police say they have made no arrests at this stage and are treating the robberies as being linked.

Increased patrols will be taking place in Preston city centre this evening to reassure the public.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 1481 of August 29 2023 or email forcecontrolroom@lancashire.police.uk

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