A man brandishing a saw allegedly tried to rob two children earlier this week - and now police are searching for him. 

Northumbria Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after two children were the victims of an attempted robbery in Newcastle.

Shortly before 11am on Tuesday (August 27), officers received a report that a boy aged 14 and his 12-year-old sister were walking through City Stadium, off Warwick Street in Heaton, when they were approached by a man.

The man, who was reported as being in possession of a saw, demanded that the young girl hand over money.

As they attempted to run, the man then grabbed hold of the girl, before both children managed to get away.

No property was stolen in the incident and, thankfully,  both the boy and the girl were left uninjured but shaken.

The offender then made off towards Warwick Street.

Detective Constable Simon King, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a distressing incident for the two children and I would like to praise them for coming forward.

“A full investigation into the report has been launched and we are asking anyone with information to contact us.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen a white man, between 5ft 10in and 5ft 11in tall, who was carrying a red-handled saw.

Detective Constable King added: “We understand people will be anxious about what has happened and we have had an increased presence in the area with officers conducting enquiries.

Most read:

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here. 

“We ask those with information – no matter how small or insignificant they feel it may be – to get in touch with us so that we can take the appropriate action.”

Witnesses should contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, using the live chat function on the Force website or completing a crime update form.

Alternatively, if you are unable to use these channels, call 101. Please quote log number NP-20240827-0292.