Chocolate thief wanted over death

Police are looking for the man seen in CCTV footage

Detectives are investigating the death of a 75-year-old man who was pushed over by a fleeing shoplifter.

Philip Dickinson was walking to a shop in Blackley, Manchester, in September when he was shoved by a man running off with a box of stolen chocolate bars.

He was taken to hospital where he died from heart disease a month later. A pathologist said the incident had been a "significant factor" in his death.

Greater Manchester Police has started a manslaughter investigation.

Mr Dickinson was making the short trip from his home on Longton Road to the shop in Victoria Avenue at 1045 BST on 24 September 2008 when he was pushed.

The grandfather, who had previously suffered heart problems, was taken to North Manchester General Hospital but died on 21 October.

Mr Dickinson died one month after the incident

Detectives have issued CCTV images of a man they want to trace who was inside the shop moments before the incident.

The man is described as white, aged between 30 and 40 years old, of medium build and with brown hair.

Det Insp Mark Hussey, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "Philip's family has been left absolutely devastated by the untimely death of a much-loved father and grandfather who should have enjoyed many more years of his retirement.

"That thief was stealing Mars bars worth just £35. We're of the opinion that while he did not intend to cause Philip's death, he had an influence on it.

"We're doing all we can to trace who is responsible - please call us if you know who is responsible for this."