A MAN was left with serious facial injuries after being attacked from behind and knocked unconscious in a violent robbery in Radcliffe last Friday.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after the 39-year-old was attacked as he walked through the Red Bank Lodges area, near the Coronation Road estate, between 8pm and 11pm.

He was approached from behind and struck to the back of the head, knocking him out. When he came to, he found that his mobile phone, a wallet containing £80, and a 'SuperDry' bag containing shopping had been stolen.

He suffered a black eye, swollen lips and bruising to his face as a result of the attack.

The victim remembers speaking to a man and a woman who were sitting on a nearby bench shortly before the attack, and officers are hoping they will be able to assist with the investigation into the assault.

The man is described as white, around 5ft 8in tall, in his mid to late 20s, with a slim build, black hair and a dark coloured baseball cap.

The woman is described as white, around 5ft 6in tall, in her early 20s, of average build with shoulder-length blonde hair. She was wearing a pink hooded top and black leggings, and introduced herself as Roxanne.

Detective Constable Chris Bromley said: "A man has been left with quite serious facial injuries as a result of this attack, in which he was left lying unconscious on the floor for an unknown length of time.

"This was obviously incredibly dangerous, and could have resulted in much more serious injuries, so it is vital we try and identify whoever is responsible.

"That is why it is so important that these potential witnesses come forward and assist us, they may have seen something important which would help us catch those responsible.

"I would also like to remind members of the public to be wary of walking through secluded areas alone and at night, especially now it is getting dark so early."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 8223 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.