A ROBBER punched a businessman in the back of the head and stole thousands of pounds of his takings in Daubhill.

The attacker had been lying in wait outside the 27-year-old's victim's house in High Street when he struck just after 9.30am today, punching the unsuspecting man in the back of the head.

The attacker grabbed the victim's bag, which contained a "significant amount of money", and then fled in a waiting car in the direction of Gregson Field.

The victim was so badly hurt that he had to be admitted to hospital, where he stayed for much of the day, although his injuries are not thought to have been serious.

He owns two businesses and was leaving his home for the bank with takings earned over the weekend.

The robber is described as white, in his 30s, about 5ft 10in tall, and he was wearing a high-vis vest over a black top and black trousers.

Det Con May Preston said: “The offender lay in wait for the victim and attacked him and stole his business takings.

"The victim had to attend hospital to be treated for his injuries and was understandably extremely shaken.

“I would urge anyone who saw the man, or who has any information at all to contact police immediately."

In 2013, a war veteran died after being punched in a robbery at his home in Longfield Road, Daubhill.

Frank Worsley, aged 87, lost his life three weeks after the attack by Daniel Crompton, aged 25, who was jailed for life with a minimum of 18 years.

Anyone with information can call police on 0161 8565822 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.