A TEENAGE girl is recovering after being knocked down by a robber who stole her shoes and socks.

Detectives said the 15-year-old was walking home along Millfield Lane, Nether Poppleton, from Manor C of E Academy, at 5.50pm on Wednesday, September 10, when a man ran up behind her. As she approached the railway crossing, he pushed her to the ground and demanded her shoes and socks, which he removed before turning and heading back along Millfield Lane towards Acomb.

The victim was not hurt in the incident and has returned to school.

Officers have stepped up patrols to reassure residents are reviewing CCTV footage from businesses in the area.

The man is described as either Asian or Eastern European, about 25 years old, between 6ft and 6ft 4in tall, with a thin, stubbly face and short black hair, which was styled at the front.

He was wearing thin, square glasses, a blue jacket, black jeans and was possibly carrying a small rucksack.

Detectives would also like to hear from anyone who has found a discarded pair of size six, girls, black Deep Seven pumps with a silver buckle and a pair of black ankle socks, in the area.

At the time of the incident, the area was busy with people visiting local businesses or returning home from work and officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or saw anyone acting suspiciously to call 101 or email YorkCID@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk