Police quell social media fears over man 'wanted' for robberies in Doncaster village

Residents in Bentley have said a man in the area, who has been approaching people in the street as well as homes and businesses asking for money, had been involved in a number of recent robberies in the area.

But police say this is not the case and the man has been eliminated through CCTV footage.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “We are stronger with our communities when intelligence and incidents of crime are reported to us; this helps us understand the wider issues and problems in our area.

“We have recently received a report of man approaching people in the Bentley area and asking for money.

“Upon the report, officers attended and spoke with the man, who is now being supported by partner organisations. We haven’t had any further reports since.

“Suggestion on social media is that the man is responsible for local robberies, this is not the case, the man has been eliminated from enquiries through CCTV footage.

“If you are aware of incidents or have been the victim of a crime please report it via 101 or the SYP website.”

The appeal comes after an armed robbery at the Tesco Express store in Bentley High Street on Wednesday night when a man armed with a knife escaped with cash from the till after threatening staff.

And last month, an armed robber fled after targeting a shop in Arksey Lane in the village.