A 71-YEAR-OLD man threatened by a stranger for money was able to escape his would-be attacker by running into a nearby shop.

The pensioner had been getting into his car when he felt his arm being held lightly by another man who had run across the road to get to him.

The attempted robbery took place on Sunday morning at around 10.10am near the Lloyds Pharmacy on Linthorpe Road, in Middlesbrough.

Cleveland Police are investigating the incident and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokeswoman for the force said: “The victim was asked for money and was threatened, however, he managed to break free and ran into a local shop.

“The suspect is described as a black male, aged in his forties, around 6ft tall, with dark, short hair and wearing dark trousers and a dark top.

“Any witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have dash cam footage is asked to contact PC Mark Kenley from Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting event number 115181.”