A BOY of seven raised the alarm after spotting a wheelchair-bound man being robbed in the street.

Police said the youngster sprang into action when he saw the robber grab Keith Moore's wheelchair and push it against a wall at the entrance to Eldon Square, in Clayton Street, Newcastle, at 2.30pm last Saturday.

Mr Moore, 26, of Wallsend, North Tyneside, was unable to call for help because of a speech impediment caused by cerebral palsy.

The attacker fled with cash after rifling through Mr Moore's money belt.

Detective Inspector Martin Harvey said: "This boy saw what was happening and drew his mother's attention to it. She was able to call us on her mobile phone.

"It has taken us some time to talk to the boy to find out what he saw."

Detectives are examining security camera footage for further clues. Anyone with information is asked to contact the police, on 0191-214 6555.