AN 83-year-old woman was robbed by a man in South Tyneside.

It happened between 9.50pm and 9.55pm, on Friday, December 5.

The woman was walking along West Meadows Road, in Cleadon, when she was approached from behind by a man who grabbed her handbag.

The man made off with it in the direction of Woodlands Road.

The woman was left shaken but uninjured as a result of the incident.

"Enquiries to trace the man responsible are continuing today," said a spokeswoman for Northumbria Police.

"Officers are patrolling the area today to offer reassurance to residents and anyone with concerns should speak to them. Detectives will also be carrying out house to house enquiries.

"Police are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone with information as they may be able to assist with the investigation."

People can contact police on 101, extension 69191, quoting log number 1315 05/12/14 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.