A WOMAN has been taken to hospital after being attacked and robbed in a town centre.

The 36-year-old was approached by a man wearing a black hooded top at the junction of Tower Street and Albert Street in Hartlepool at 3.40pm.

The man attacked her and stole her handbag, before running off towards Tower Street and then down Exeter Street.

The victim was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton by ambulance.

Inspector Lee Rukin of Hartlepool Police, said: "This cowardly attack had left the victim distraught and in an extremely frightened state."

Witnesses are asked to call police on 01429-302126 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.