The 21-year-old was walking along a back lane in Prince Edward Road, South Shields, near the Subway sandwich shop, at 10.05am yesterday when he was approached by two men.

The robbers snatched a white plastic bag containing an undisclosed amount of cash.

They made off leaving the man shocked but otherwise uninjured.

Police today issued descriptions of the assailants, both white males.

One is 6ft tall and of stocky build. He was wearing a black jacket and possibly a black hat.

The second man is 5ft 8in tall and slim. He was wearing a white jacket.

There were a lot of people in the area at the time and police are hoping witnesses will come forward with information.

There was a dark coloured motor vehicle in the back lane at the time, which may or may not be connected with the incident. Officers are eager to speak to the occupants of the vehicle and anyone else in the area.

Anyone with information is asked to call 03456 043043 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.