The victim was left shocked and injured.
The attack happened in Over Road near Church Minshull at around 4.40pm on Monday, January 18.
The victim was working in his tool sales van in a layby. As he went to the front of his van he was approached by a man carrying a metal bar.
The man said nothing but hit the victim in the face with the bar causing injuries.
At this point the would-be robber lost his footing and the victim pushed him. A passing car beeped its horn causing the suspect to run to a white Astra van and drive off towards Winsford.