A THUG is being hunted by police after he tried to rob a 15-year-old boy on his way to school.

He fled empty-handed after a woman pushing a pram appeared on the scene.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident in Gigg Lane, Bury, at 8.30am on Thursday.

The boy was walking along Gigg Lane in the direction of Manchester Road to catch a bus to school. As he passed the public access to Starkies Wood, the thug pounced and grabbed the youngster. He threatened to punch the boy and repeatedly demanded money.

When the woman appeared from Manchester Road, the offender ran off towards Bury FC's ground.

Police say the thug was white, 5ft 8ins tall, aged in his late 20s, of medium build, with brown eyes, a large nose, fair complexion and with a brown goatee-type beard.

He wore a black hooded leather-look jacket with the hood up and black jeans.

Officers investigating the case are anxious that the woman pushing the pram comes forward.

They also want to speak to anyone else who witnessed the attempted robbery. They should contact the Bury police robbery unit on 856 8093 or freephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.