A teenager was taken to hospital after being attacked in an attempted mugging in Bolton.
The 16 year-old was said to be on his paper round on Birch Avenue in Westhoughton at around 7am on Wednesday mornning.
He was approached by a man, believed to be around 18 years-old, who punched him in the face and demanded he hand over his mobile phone, police said.
However a member of the public intervened and the attacker ran off empty handed, they added.
The victim was taken to hospital by ambulance for treatment to facial injuries.
The offender is said to have fled back in the direction of Townsfield Road, which is where he originally approached from.
So far no arrests have been made and locals are being urged to be vigilant.
The John Holt Community Centre, close where the attack happened, posted on Facebook saying: "At approximately 7.10am this morning a young boy on his paper round was attacked in an attempt to steal his phone, this happened on the grass outside the centre.
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"He subsequently went to hospital and the police have been notified.
"Anyone with any information please contact the police.
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"EJ news on market street have started a little collection to help replace his blazer that was damaged during the attack, any donations will be greatly received and you can also donate at the centre and we will pass on.
"Thanking you all and let's be vigilant."
GMP said the attacker was wearing grey jacket with a hood and lighter coloured tracksuit bottoms or jeans.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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