CCTV images have been released following an attempted robbery in Rossendale.

Two brothers walking in New Church Road, Stacksteads, were approached by a man who asked them for a light for his cigarette.

One of the brothers offered his lighter, but the man pulled out a knife and demanded their wallets and mobile phones.

The two brothers were able to get away with nothing stolen.

The incident happened on Sunday, May 22 at around 10.10pm.

The offender is described as white, late 20’s to early 30’s, medium build, about 5’ 9” tall with short light brown hair.

He was wearing a dark blue and white striped jumper and tracksuit bottoms.

He appeared to have a tattoo which started at the base of his right thumb and travelled underneath his sleeve.

He also showed scarring to his right forearm and also to his stomach, the latter he claimed was from having been stabbed previously. Detective Constable Leanne Lyons said, “I would appeal to anyone who recognises the images to come forward and contact the police.

“Although the victims were not physically hurt, they have understandably been left shaken following their ordeal.

"I would ask members of the local community to look at these images and see if they recognise the offender and if so to contact us.”

Anyone with information should call Lancashire Constabulary on 0845 1 25 35 45 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.