A MAN was stabbed as he walked through a park after refusing to give his phone to a mugger.

Police received reports shortly before 7.15pm last night that a 26-year-old man had been stabbed in Queens Park. 

The incident occurred after the offender demanded that the victim hand over his mobile phone but he refused.

The victim was then stabbed before the offender fled in to the park and police are appealing for the public's help to locate him. 

The offender is described as white, of slim build and around five foot eight inches tall.

Police said he had a Bolton accent and was wearing white trainers and a black coat.

Increased patrols are now being carried out by police in the area in response to the incident as they move to reassure residents and users of the popular park.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact police on 0161 856 5619.

Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.