Police investigate robberies in Wellington

The first robbery occurred at just after 8.10pm on Lychgate Walk on 21 December, while the second incident occurred close to the Barclays Bank on Church Street at around 11.30pm.

In the first incident, the victim - a 22-year-old man - was walking home from Wellington Station when he was approached by a group of four men as he made his way through the churchyard at All Saints Church.

Without speaking, one of the four men attacked the victim and hit him a number of times. The assailant then stole a Samsung Galaxy S2 phone off the victim before fleeing the scene with the other men he was with.

As a result of this robbery the victim suffered bruises and grazes to his face and a small cut to the bridge of his nose.

In the second incident, the victim - a 35-year-old man - was on Church Street when he was approached by a number of unknown men. One of the men punched the victim hard in the face causing him to fall to the floor and lose consciousness.

It appears the offender made off after punching the victim and a passing member of the public then called emergency services to the scene.

The victim was taken to hospital after this robbery and he remains in hospital at the present time with a suspected broken jaw.

The victim's Samsung Galaxy mobile phone has not been found after this incident.

Speaking about these two incidents a police spokesman said:

"We are keeping an open mind but we do believe that these two incidents may be linked. There are obvious similarities between both incidents and therefore it is possible that the same group of men are involved in both robberies.

"We are very keen to hear from anyone who may have information about these incidents, especially anyone who may have seen a group of men hanging around the Lychgate or All Saints Church areas on Wednesday night.

"Anyone who believes they may have information about this incident is asked to call officers in Telford on 0300 333 3000. Alternatively, please remember that Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you'd rather leave information without getting directly involved yourself."

22-year-old assaulted and robbed
Meanwhile, in a separate incident that is not being linked at this stage, a man was robbed of his mobile phone and wallet in the early hours of today, as he made his way home from a night out.

The 22 year-old was walking with a friend along New Street in Wellington at around 2am when they were followed to the High Street by three unknown males. They were then assaulted and as result of the assault the victim fell to the floor.

It is believed the offenders stole several items of property, including his mobile phone and wallet.

An ambulance was called and the man was taken to the Princess Royal Hospital. He suffered slight facial injuries.

Police are investigating the matter and want to hear from anyone who has information in relation to the incident.