Trader stabbed on Tommyfield Market

A MARKET trader has been stabbed after a masked man raided his stall in Oldham town centre.

The victim was seen clutching his blood-soaked stomach as he was taken to hospital by paramedics at Tommyfield Market yesterday lunchtime.

Police confirmed the man, who is believed to be the owner of Fonezone on Lord Street, is not in a life-threatening condition.

One trader, who did not want to be named, said: “I walked round to see what was happening at about 1.30pm and I could see a man with paramedics. He had a blood stain on his front.”

Other traders revealed they saw a masked man fleeing the scene.

Owner of near-by Mr Chippy, Habib Rehman, raised concerns, saying: “There should be security around here, because the same shop was broken into a fortnight ago.

“The police force are struggling at the moment so there should be more cameras here to help people like us.”

The knifeman is described by police as about 6ft tall and of slim build. He wore dark clothing.

A police spokesman said: “GMP would like to reassure residents and businesses there will be a thorough inquiry into this incident.”

Witnesses should call police on 0161-856 8951 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.