CCTV appeal issued as couple attacked and have £15k Rolex watch stolen after Gay Village night out

New CCTV images have been issued after a gay couple were injured and had a £15k Rolex watch stolen after being attacked and mugged in Manchester city centre.

Peter Snowdon, 41 and Wesley Fellows, 47, who have been together for over 20 years, had ventured out for a night out in Manchester's Gay Village - a place where they have 'always felt safe' - with a group of friends on November 2.

The couple of interior designers, who live in Shropshire, attempted to walk back to their hotel, Dakota on Ducie Street. Minutes later, they were 'kicked and punched' before Wes had his designer watch and shoes stolen.

READ MORE 'I know what's it like to lose a child. I feel sorry for the mother'

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News after the incident, Peter said: "We'd been out all afternoon and had been dressed in black tie. We had gone back to the hotel to throw on a shirt and a jumper to go out to Canal Street.

"We had a great night and went to a few bars. We got separated from our friends and walked back to do the same journey to our hotel at around 2.30am."

Peter and Wesley started walking back to their hotel, crossing Piccadilly and along Ducie Street when they heard footsteps running up behind them. Everything after that, they said, 'happened so quickly' and was a 'blur'.

"One guy got me in a body lock so I couldn't move, the three others threw Wes to the floor. There was a lot of tugging, his shirt was ripped to shreds and his shoes were off," Peter added.

"Then they ran off and Wes screamed 'they've got my f***ing watch.' There was blood all over my trousers and Wes was bleeding from his head.

An investigation was launched by Greater Manchester Police. The force said Peter and Wes were 'followed by four unknown males from Canal Street' who 'began to attack them'.

"Multiple punches and kicks were thrown at the victims and one of the victims sustained an injury to his head as a result of the attack," a spokesperson said.

"The suspects stole a Rolex watch valued at £15,000 as well as his trainers. The four suspects then made off on foot turning right onto Dale Steet, left onto Lena Street towards Piccadilly Gardens. The victims believe they may have been targeted by the group due to the Rolex watch."

As part of investigations, Greater Manchester Police have now released the images of four men they want to speak to after the horrific ordeal, who officers believe could assist with enquiries.

On social media, Wes and Peter wrote: Thanks to @GMPCityCentre @gmpolice for progressing the investigation."

If you know or recognise the men pictured, please contact police on 0161 856 4145, quoting the log number 552 of 03/11/2024. Alternatively, details can be shared on our LiveChat function on our website www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.