POLICE hunting a masked robber who stabbed a shop assistant in the stomach have renewed appeals for help from the public.

The victim, 16-year-old Robert Wyllie, was injured when he had a go at the knifeman who tried to rob Joyce's off-licence and video store in Briercliffe Road, Burnley.

The Nelson and Colne College student who lives in the Casterton area of Burnley swung at the man with a stick used for bringing down the shop shutters.

As he hit the man on the arm he suffered a stab wound which needed three stitches.

He is now recovering at home.

The incident happened at 9pm on Tuesday when a man wearing a balaclava over his face burst into the shop run by Anil and Hemleta Patel.

He grabbed Mrs Patel around the throat, demanded money and threatened her with a knife. No money was handed over and as the man was leaving Robert tried to stop him.

Det Sgt Mark Gray said: "We don't advise people to have a go because of the possible consequences.

"Robert was injured but he is a very brave young man.''

The robber is described as six feet tall and of stocky build. He was wearing a dark coloured jacket, gloves and the balaclava.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Gray on 01282 472145.

A man arrested shortly after the incident has been eliminated from police inquiries and released.

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