TWO woman have been jailed after robbing an elderly woman who was using a cash point.

Laura McGill, 36, and Teresa Reilly, 44, of Standerton Terrace, Stanley, were caught after a member of the public recognised them and chased them down the street.

They were sentenced to 23 months each at Durham Crown Court after their convictions for robbery, possessing a class A drug, breaching bail.

The court was told the elderly victim was using the cash machine in Standerton Terrace, Stanley, in September last year when she was approached by McGill and Reilly.

As the money was dispensed the woman was pushed over and the money was stolen.

The victim was taken to a nearby shop by passers-by, while another member of the public gave chase. Although they were not caught, they were identified and later arrested and charged.

Acting Detective Sergeant Mal Ord, of Durham Constabulary, said: “These two women targeted a vulnerable lady and although she was not physically harmed, it left her incredibly shaken by the event.

“I would like to thank the members of the public who stopped to help, particularly, the man who chased them. His help was invaluable in getting a conviction in this case.”