If you were in South Walks in Dorchester at around 5.30pm on New Year’s Eve and witnessed an attempted knifepoint robbery, detectives would like to hear from you.

A local man in his 50s was walking on South Walks when he was approached by a man who asked for directions. The man then produced a knife and demanded money.

The victim managed to kick out at the offender and run away from the scene. He was not injured during the incident.

The man, who spoke with an Eastern European accent, is described as white, aged around 35 years old, approximately five feet eight inches tall, and of medium to stocky build. He was wearing a grey hooded top with red or orange lining and dark-coloured clothing, including a padded jacket.

Detective Sergeant Simon Austin, of Weymouth CID, said, “I would like to hear from any motorists who were driving along South Walks at the relevant time and may have captured any footage on dashcam to assist my enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200196465. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.