A COURAGEOUS shop owner fought off an intruder after he tried to rob the store with a small axe.

The raider burst into the Food & Drink 4U shop in Green Street, Atherton, at about 2.40pm on April 15, producing an axe from his satchel.

He then leaned over the counter and demanded cash and cigarettes from the 60-year-old shop owner.

Fearing for himself and his livelihood, the owner threw two bottles of vodka at the thief, of which at least one hit the attacker in the head and smashed.

The would-be thief then fled empty-handed.

The thief is was white, wearing dark clothing and had his face covered with an unknown item of clothing.

Police are now appealing to anyone who has information to come forward.

Det Con Andrew Partington said: "The shopkeeper quite literally fought for his livelihood: he was confronted by a man brandishing a small axe and instinct took over.

"The thief underestimated the bravery this man showed in the face of adversity and when struck on the head by two flying vodka bottles, he lost his bottle and fled empty-handed.

"However, the fact he did not succeed in stealing anything does not detract from the seriousness of his actions and we need to identify who the offender is and bring them to justice.

"I would therefore urge anyone who has information about this attempted robbery to call us.

"Perhaps you witnessed the offender going into or out of the shop or you suspect who may be involved.

"If you do have information then please call us."

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery and bailed until June 8 while police investigate.

Anyone with information can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.