The 61-year-old male victim was making his way home from the pub through the grounds of St Leonard’s Church when he was approached by an unknown man between 11pm and 11.20pm.

The man – who the victim believes he may have walked past earlier – asked the victim for a light for his cigarette. The victim handed over his lighter but the man responded by saying he didn’t want a lighter he wanted his money.

A police spokesman said:

“After demanding money the offender grabbed the victim and a struggle ensued. The victim was punched several times but he managed to fight the offender off using his walking stick.

“However, the offender grabbed the walking stick off the victim and threatened him with it. The offender demanded the victim’s wallet and the victim decided to hand it over rather than fight back again.

“The victim handed over his wallet – a shiny, black ‘John Rocha wallet containing around £35 – and the offender immediately fled the scene. The victim then made his way home and called the police.

“The victim suffered cuts and grazes to his face as a result of this incident but has given investigating officers a description of the man that robbed him.

“The offender is described as being white, aged in his early 30s, around 5ft 6inches tall and as having a stocky build. He is also described as having dark hair and as wearing a white jacket and dark trousers.

“Anyone with information about this robbery, especially the identity of the offender, is asked to contact police in Telford on 101 or 0300 333 3000, quoting reference number 697S 021212.

“Alternatively, please remember Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you’d rather leave information without getting directly involved yourself.”