A cyclist was robbed of his bike and valuables at knife point as he rested at a Chorley beauty spot.

Police said the 37-year-old victim was taking a break from a rural bike ride and was sat at a picnic table on a car park off Moor Road, Anglezarke when the robber struck.

He was approached from behind, had his head pinned to the table and was threatened with a Stanley knife before being told his mountain bike was being taken.

The incident happened at around 2pm on Tuesday, April 5.

Also taken during the robbery was a backpack containing a leather wallet, an ipod, waterproof clothing and other items.

The cycle in question was a Commencal Super 42 mountian bike in black and yellow, worth £1,350.

The suspect was not seen clearly but is described as a white male with a strong Bolton accent and was wearing black Nike trainers.

A Chorley police spokesman, said: “This was an extremely frightening and distressing incident which happened in the middle of the afternoon at a quiet location.

“The suspect made threats and was in possession of a weapon so we would very much like to hear from anyone who has information about this man.”

Chorley police can be contacted on 01257 246225.