Knife-wielding robbers strike

TWO masked robbers brandished a knife at a couple before making off with one of their bikes.

Cheshire Police said two Balaclavaclad muggers struck at 9pm on Wednesday on Village Square in Castlefields, Runcorn (above).

A force spokeswoman said they demanded the bicycle and fled with it.

They were believed to have been in possession of a “small knife”.

Investigators are keen to hear from witnesses and obtain any footage that might shed light on the incident and the culprits’ identities.

The spokeswoman said: “They are described as being aged in their early 20s and wearing balaclavas.

“Anyone with information is asked to report it to Cheshire Police quoting IML1255892 via cheshire.police.uk or call 101.

“Information can also be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 111 555 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.”

Castlefields Village Square was created during the £100m, 15-year redevelopment of the estate during the 2000s and 2010s, and coincided with the demolition of the former whitetile Castlefields local centre, which had served Runcorn residents for decades.

Amenities include a community centre, health centre, shop, chip shop, bus stop and hairdressers.