A MAN on crutches thought a Good Samaritan was coming to his assistance when he fell on the canal towpath in Burnley.

But after offering to help, the teenage cyclist stole the man's wallet containing £92 and pictures of his children. Det Sgt Steve Earnshaw described it as a despicable and callous offence.

It happened between 9.15 and 9.30am on Wednesday.

The 33-year-old man, who was on crutches following a recent leg operation, was walking along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath near Parliament Street when he fell. His black Umbro wallet fell from his pocket.

As he struggled to get back to his feet he was approached by a youth on a bike.

He initially offered to help but then picked up the wallet and rode off. He is white, 15-17, and was wearing a cream Nike jacket, white woollen hat and blue jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Burnley CID on 01282 472144 or tell Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.