Police appeal for suspect in machines theft

Blackpool detectives are appealing for help to trace a man who is wanted in connection with the theft of cash from gaming machines at a popular Promenade party pub.

By The Newsroom

Published 9th Aug 2016, 12:31 BST

Updated 25th Aug 2016, 18:09 BST

The incident was reported to police several months ago but only now police chosen to make their investigation public.

Officers would like to speak to Ian Sparkes, 28, who is originally from Blackpool but whose last known address was in Oldham.

The appeal follows the theft of £320 from a gaming machine at The New  Manchester pub on the Promenade, Blackpool on April 12.

The same man is wanted in connection with a number of similar thefts in Greater Manchester involving gaming equipment.

Police said the man they are looking to speak to has strong links to Blackpool and it is thought that he could still be in the area.

If anyone has seen Sparkes or has any information they are asked to contact police on 101 quoting LC-20160808-0568.

Alternatively anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org