Detectives investigating a string of robberies in Blackpool have identified a man they want to speak to.



Gary Boyd, 37 (pictured) has a last known address of Hawes Side Lane, Blackpool and links to Cleveleys and Fleetwood.

The four raids took place within 20 minutes of each other in the Highfield Road area on Monday May 7th.

A member of the public suffered life changing facial injuries as he grappled with a man with a knife during one of the robberies.

Detective Inspector Kevin Simmons, from Blackpool CID said: “Our enquiries so far have identified Gary Boyd as someone we would like to trace and speak to in connection with these robberies.

“I would appeal to anyone who knows where he might be to get in touch with us. If anyone sees him they should not approach him but should call 999 immediately.

“If Gary himself sees this appeal I would urge him to come and speak to us as a matter of urgency.

“These were particularly vicious robberies resulting in one man suffering life changing injuries.”

Several members of the pubic bravely tackled the knifeman, who escaped with just £80.

The first incident happened at B&M Bargains around 5pm, then Tesco Express, followed by two newsagents in Highfield Road.

On each occasion the offender has made demands for money whilst threatening staff members with a knife and an item concealed to look like a firearm.

It is thought the offender was wearing a clown mask during the first two robberies and has travelled from each of the incidents on a bicycle.

.Anyone with information can call us on 01253 604157 or if they fail to get an answer, 101 quoting incident reference 1259 of today (May 7th).

Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555111 or online at ‎crimestoppers-uk.org.