A TEENAGER who mugged boys in the grounds of Blackburn Cathedral is the ‘poster boy’ for an mugging awareness campaign.

Niaeem Alam, 18, of Kay Street, Darwen, is starting a minimum youth custody term of two-and-a-half years after targeting three youngsters in the cathedral grounds last September.

Initially he befriended two 15-year-olds before showing them a gruesome picture on his phone and threatening them.

Another 16-year-old was also robbed of his Blackberry phone after being punched in the face.

A Lancashire police spokesman said: “We know that this individual has caused fear and concern to the community, especially those using the cathedral grounds and the surrounding areas.”

Town centre police say that if anyone has any concerns about similar incidents they can call 01254 353576.