A MAN was robbed at knifepoint today as he walked along a York street.

The 22-year-old man was strolling up Heslington Road at about 1am when a man jumped out at him from an alley leading to Regent Street, wielding a four-inch blade.

The robber threatened him with the knife before demanding money. The frightened victim handed over his wallet before running off.

Police describe the attacker as a white male, in his late teens or early 20s, 5ft 10in tall, clean shaven, with a slim build and short dark hair.

He was wearing a dark waist-length jacket, light trousers and dark shoes.

Anyone with information should contact York police on 01904 631321.

Last month a robber armed with a knife targeted a female student at the University of York's campus in Heslington. A police spokesman said there was nothing to link the two incidents at this stage.

Meanwhile, a 26-year-old York man was assaulted and robbed by a group of teenagers, police said today.

The victim was walking along Fishergate, at the junction of Blue Bridge Lane, at 6.30pm yesterday when he was approached by a five-strong gang.

A young male in the group attacked him and knocked him into the road, forcing a passing car to brake heavily.

A teenage girl then snatched the man's mobile phone, which had fallen out of his jacket.

Police describe the attacker as a white male, 5ft 11in tall, aged about 16, with short hair and a large bottom lip. He was wearing a baggy black jacket and dark trousers.

Police would like to speak to the driver of the passing car and any other witnesses.

Updated: 15:13 Wednesday, April 03, 2002