The would-be victim fought back and managed to smash the back window and nearside rear window of a light blue or silver coloured Renault Laguna being used as a getaway car.

Police say the attempted robbery happened at around 6pm on Friday in Higher Heath when a man in his fifties was threatened by a man brandishing a baseball bat.

The assailant demanded money but ran off after the victim snatched the bat from him and then smashed two windows in the Renault Laguna as it drove off.

Police constable Tanya Grey, the investigating officer, said: “The man who was threatened was not injured and nothing was stolen.

“I am appealing for information concerning those responsible or from anyone who knows about a Renault Laguna which had two smashed windows. They should contact Market Drayton police station on 101.

“Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”