AN 18-YEAR-OLD boy was stabbed with a knife by a thief who stole his bike -- and then returned it.

The teenager was at a skateboarding park in Hutchinson Way, Radcliffe, on Thursday shortly before 9pm when a youth grabbed hold of his arm.

The victim tried to pull away but the thief pulled out a knife and demanded his bike.

Minutes later, the thief returned with the bike and told the victim he was "only joking".

As the teenager took hold of his bike, the knifeman tried to stab his hand, cutting his thumb.

The offender is described as mixed race, 6ft, slim build, aged about 16 or 17 years, with a skinhead haircut. His front tooth was braced and he was wearing a black tracksuit.

Any witnesses are asked to contact Bury Robbery Unit on 0161 856 8093 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111