DOZENS of shoppers are believed to hold the key to the search for a robber who pushed his victim to the ground before running off with about £800.

The attack happened outside the Woolworths store in Darlington town centre at 3.15pm on Friday.

The victim was an 18-year-old man from Newton Aycliffe, who was in the town to buy furniture.

Having visited the Natwest Bank, in High Row, he crossed the town centre area and stopped to check the contents of his wallet.

A male in his early 20s ran up and grabbed the black leather wallet and cash from his hand and pushed him to the floor.

Although the victim was unhurt, he was left dazed and unable to give chase as his attacker ran off through the crowd of shoppers.

The attacker was described as white, 5ft 8in, of stocky build, with collar-length black hair, which was brushed back.

He was wearing light blue jeans with a cut across the left knee and a light blue denim jacket, and black and white Adidas training shoes.

Anyone who witnessed the attack or who has any information is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.