AN urgent appeal is being made by police to identify two youths who took part in an attempted robbery at knifepoint.

The incident took place on the footpath alongside Tavistock's canal on Saturday (March 13).

A 67 year old man was walking along the canal towpath near Tavistock College when he was approached by two youths. One hung back while the other approached the man and produced a dark coloured craft knife, similar to a Stanley knife.

He demanded some items but the victim kicked out at him and the youth ran off empty handed, along with the other, who did not take an active part in the incident.

Sgt Dave Anning said: 'An incident like this is incredibly rare in Tavistock, and as such we hope to catch those responsible as soon as possible.

'It seems as though a youngster has decided to try something very stupid indeed. Hopefully, he has been put off for life, but whatever the case we need to catch this youngster as soon as possible.

'I would appeal to the other youth who was there to come forward, or he will be treated as a suspect as well and also liable to be arrested.'

The offenders are thought to be around 14 years old. Both have been described as skinny and around 5ft tall. The youth with the knife was wearing a distinctive waterproof coat, which was bright pink and had a black criss-cross pattern on the back and the other youth was wearing a dark coloured, possibly brown or black, hoody.

Sgt Anning said: 'Parents may well recognise the descriptions here — if so, please do come forward as this may be an opportunity to deter a young person from getting involved in criminal activity.'

Anyone who has any information about this incident, or recognises the descriptions of the youths is asked to contact the police on 08452 777444, quoting crime reference JT/10/247.