POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a robbery in Blaenau Ffestiniog in which a man was assaulted and left "extremely shaken."

According to investigating officer DS Steve Thomas, at Porthmadog CID, the attack happened just after 11pm on Saturday, December 30.

He said: "A local man was locking up the gates to he Express Motors yard in Glan-y-Pwll Courtyard, Blaenau Ffestiniog when he was assaulted.

"During the course of the attack, the offender entered the victim's Astra car, which was parked close to the gates, and stole a black and grey ‘Head’ backpack which contained cash and personal effects, before running off in the direction of Tan-y-Grisiau.

"Fortunately the victim wasn’t seriously injured but the incident has undoubtedly left the man extremely shaken.”

North Wales Police are now seeking witnesses to the incident or any person who has knowledge of the robbery in what is described as "a close knit community."

The man who carried out the attack is described as 6’ tall, slim build and wearing a black hoody, some sort of black face covering and black tracksuit bottoms with a while logo. He possibly wore white Adidas trainers. He had a male accomplice who stood nearby and also wore dark clothing.

The DS added: "Crimes of this nature are rare in our area and with the continued help of our communities we have to ensure it remains so.

"However we can’t tackle this problem alone and I cannot emphasise enough the importance of the community sharing their concerns and information with us immediately particularly regarding any suspicious behaviour.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact NWP via the web live chat http://www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/chat-support.aspx and quote RC 17195521. Alternatively call NWP on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111."