DETECTIVES believe witnesses could help them hunt down two men involved in a knifepoint robbery.

The attack happened shortly before 3pm on Monday in Peterlee, east Durham.

The 23-year-old victim was approached by the men on a footpath behind North Blunts Primary School.

The robbers chatted to him before one pulled a knife and threatened him. They stole £83 and made off on foot.

The pair were seen in the town centre at 2.20pm, near to the Boots store, talking to another man and woman.

Detective Inspector Eric Malkin, of Peterlee CID, said: "It is fortunate that the victim wasn't injured."

The first robber was in his mid-20s, 5ft 7in, of medium build. He was clean shaven and had straight ginger or mousy-brown hair, brushed forward. He was wearing black Nike tracksuit bottoms and cream jumper.

His accomplice was about 26, 6ft and thin. He was clean shaven and had short, closely cropped hair and a large nose. He was scruffy in appearance, wearing a dark jumper and tracksuit bottoms.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0845 60 60 365, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.