The incident happened around 1.15pm in the Hamilton town centre area. The boy was walking with friends when a man approached him and demanded he hand over money. He was seen to run off in the direction of the Regent's Centre. 

The male suspect is described as in his late 40s, around 5ft 9ins tall with grey hair and stubble. He was wearing a grey sweater and blue jeans. He had a slight tremble in his right arm.

Detective Constable Gerry Hattie, of Lanarkshire CID, said: "Thankfully the boy was not injured but this was a frightening experience for him. I'm appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or saw a man matching this description to come forward."

Those with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 2035 of 19 June, or if they wish to remain anonymous, can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.