On the left, the suspect from Blackpool, pictured right, Friends star David Schwimmer

Police in Blackpool posted on Facebook asking for witnesses to identify a suspect pictured leaving a restaurant in the town carrying what appeared to be a crate of cans.

The alleged theft happened on September 20, the post said.

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On the left, the suspect from Blackpool, pictured right, Friends star David Schwimmer

Facebook users quickly piled into the comments section, pointing out the suspect's likeness to Schwimmer's character Ross Geller in the well-loved US sitcom.

Following numerous responses, Lancashire Constabulary replied: "Thank you to everyone for your speedy responses.

"We have investigated this matter thoroughly and have confirmed that David Schwimmer was in America on this date.

"We're so sorry it has to be this way."

A Facebook user, referencing the Friends theme song, replied: "I don't think it's been this guy's day, his week, his month or even his year....."

Another, referencing a Friends episode where Ross says he is an expert in self-defence, wrote: "Please approach with caution. He is known to have studied Karate and we believe he has mastered the art of Unagi, the state of total awareness."