A TEENAGER escaped on a mountain bike after an unsuccessful raid on a sub-post office in Oswaldtwistle.

The hooded raider kicked the 77 year old postmistress after jumping over the counter at the office on Stanhill Lane.

He tried to force the door of a cash room but fled empty handed after being confronted by staff and customers.

DC Mark Winstanley, of Accrington CID, said a customer had followed the youth when he cycled away from the scene but lost sight of him in Miller Close.

"We would like to speak to anyone who may have seen where he went after Miller Close," said DC Winstanley.

"The postmistress was not injured, but she was quite shaken by this nasty incident and we would appreciate any help we can get from the public."

The incident happened at 3.30pm on Friday.

The raider had been seen acting suspiciously outside the office before he entered and jumped on to a glass counter and then into the staff area, where he pushed the postmistress and kicked her.

After his unsuccessful efforts to force the cash room door he ran from the shop pursued by a customer, who saw him in Aspden Lane, Ruskin Avenue and finally Miller Close.

The man, who was riding a silver-coloured mountain bike, is described as white, aged 16 to 18, between 5ft 5ins and 5ft 8ins and of medium build. He was wearing a luminous yellow or green anorak with the hood pulled over his face.

Anyone with any information should contact Accrington CID on 01254 353741 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.