A SHOPLIFTER barged past a Co-op shop assistant as he tried to run out of her store with pilfered laundry detergent.

Police now want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or can help identify the alleged thief.

Officers said the man had entered the Co-operative store on Clive Parade, Pinehurst, at around 4.30pm on March 10. He selected severl bottles of Ariel and Bold liquid detergent into a Morrisons Bag.

"He then ran out of the store without making any attempt to pay. A member of staff attempted to stop the suspect and he assaulted her," a Wiltshire Police spokeswoman said.

"Fortunately the 34 year old victim did not sustain any serious injury."

Anyone with information should call PC Angela Holden on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.