A SHOP assistant who tried to stop a man stealing beer from a town centre off-licence was kicked and punched by the thief.

The incident happened around mid-day last Friday in Elliott Street, Tyldesley when a man who appeared to be in his 20s tried to leave Bargain Booze without paying for lager.

When challenged as he left the shop the man repeatedly kicked and punched the shopkeeper, then ran off.

The victim suffered bruises and swelling to his back, shoulder and leg. The attacker ran off but returned 10 minutes later and smashed the shop window.

A woman shopper who saw the attack said: "The shopkeeper was shouting for help as he was being attacked on the street. I think it's disgusting that nobody went to help him, they just stood and watched."