POLICE are hunting a man who stole beauty products from a shop and punched a staff member as they tried to apprehend him.

On August 7 at around 10.40am a man entered B&M Bargains near Transfer Bridges and filled a bag with approximately £100 of cosmetics. He then left the store with a woman without making any attempt to pay for the goods.

When a staff member attempted to catch up with the pair near Gorse Hill, the thief punched him in the chest and pushed him, which caused injuries to the victim's knee and arm.

The suspect is described as white with tanned skin, short dark hair and was wearing a black gilet over a grey hooded jumper.

Anyone with information should call PC Paul Davis at Gablecross Police Station on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.