A would-be robber in a hoodie forced a Cumbrian teenager to the ground before rifling through his pockets.

Police have now launched an investigation after the terrifying attack, which happened on the metal footbridge that crosses the railway line between York Street and Brunswick Terrace in Penrith.

It happened at around 5am on Wednesday.

A Cumbria Police spokesman said the 18-year-old victim was walking to his work on the Gilwilly industrial estate when he was approached by a stranger.

The man asked the teenager for spare change before forcing him to the ground and attempting to go through his pockets.

"Fortunately, the victim was able to get away from the suspect uninjured," said a police statement.

"No items were stolen."

The would-be robber is described as a white and aged in his early 20s.

He was about 5ft 7ins tall with a medium build. The man was wearing a grey hooded top and dark tracksuit bottoms.

He had dark shaved hair.

Police are looking for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or anyone who may have information that could identify a suspect.

Anyone with information should call PC Chris Davies on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.