POLICE are still searching for a man thought to be related to a number of distraction robberies across the borough.

Last month, officers were called after someone stole a mobile phone from a member of staff in estate agent Bolton Properties, in Market Street, Farnworth.

The incident followed a similar robbery less than 300 yards away at sunbed shop Tan and Tone, in which a person had been distracted and then had her mobile phone, money, driving licence and bank cards stolen.

The incidents prompted an appeal and an image of someone believed to have been involved was circulated.

However, the person responsible is now thought to be operating in several other areas, including Westhoughton, Walkden and Tyldesley.

In each incident the man distracted people before taking their property.

Following the theft at Tan and Tone, general manager Kirsty Clarke said: “He came in and pretended he wanted some help and he was speaking in a foreign language.

"A member of staff put her stuff on the desk, and while they were talking he covered her phone and everything with a piece of paper and then took it.

“Then on Tuesday, a man came in again and didn’t take anything but then he went down the street to Bolton Properties."

Anyone with information about the incident or the man in question can contact police on 101.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.