POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a man with special needs was robbed in broad daylight.

The incident happened on March 21, when the man was walking along the Birch Hall area of Blackburn Road, in Darwen, and was approached by a man wearing a balaclava.

The thief then placed his arm round the neck of the victim and stole his wallet containing a small amount of cash and his library card.

Det Sgt Ian Critchley said he believed the incident was witnessed by a passer by and urged him to get in contact.

He said: "I would like this man and anyone else who witnessed the offence to contact us, especially in view of the fact the aggrieved was a vulnerable member of the public."

The offender was about 15 years old, with short dark hair, of plump build and wearing tracksuit bottoms.

If anyone has any information they should contact Darwen CID on 01254 353841.