Detectives in Stretford are appealing for the public's help in tracing a man who has been on the run since last November.

Steven Lee Mulgrew, 27, of Cornbrook Way, Old Trafford, was handed a prison sentence on 16 November last year after being found guilty of a robbery at Vic's Corner Shop in Stretford on 11 June 2006.

Mulgrew failed to attend his hearing, claiming he was sick, and in his absence was jailed for six years.

A warrant for his arrest was authorised and officers are now appealing for help to trace Mulgrew and put him behind bars.

Mulgrew had previously featured on Crimewatch. CCTV footage taken from the day of the robbery was broadcast in December 2006 showing Mulgrew and his accomplice committing the crime at Vic's Corner Shop.

On the morning of Sunday, 11 June 2006, the shop owner saw two men enter. One walked behind the counter and punched the victim, knocking her to the floor and causing her eyelid to split open.

The offenders then grabbed the till and a cigarette display.

They left the shop and disappeared down a nearby alleyway.

The victim was taken to Trafford General Hospital where she was treated for a cut to her right eye, severe bruising to her arms, shoulders and inner thigh.

Police inquiries later identified Mulgrew as one of the culprits.

He was arrested in August 2006 and charged with robbery in October of the same year.

On 16 October last year, he was found guilty at Minshull Crown Court.

Detective Constable Jack Chadwick, from Stretford CID, said: "This was a very serious offence in which an innocent shop worker was brutally attacked and left not only with physical injuries but also in a state of shock.

"Mulgrew has been convicted of robbery by a court of law but did not have the decency to show up and accept his punishment.

"He is not above the law and every effort is being made to trace him so he can serve his sentence.

"I would urge anyone who knows where Mulgrew is to come forward. Or, if he is hearing or reading this, hand yourself in Steven."

Anyone with any information about Mulgrew's whereabouts, or who thinks they might have seen him, is asked to contact police on 0161 856 7658 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.