DETECTIVES have issued a photofit image of a mugger who snatched a handbag from a pensioner.

The 73-year-old woman had been walking to a friend's house with her daughter in Peterlee, County Durham, at 7pm on Sunday when the attack occurred.

The women were walking along Acre Rigg Road when they saw a man crouch down in front of them. He then grabbed the pensioner's bag and fled in the direction of Chester Place.

The bag and the woman's purse were recovered nearby shortly afterwards, with £10 missing.

The thief was described as in his early twenties, 5ft 11in, of clean appearance, with short, fair hair. He was wearing a long-sleeved, navy blue top and trousers.

Anyone who recognises the man is asked to call police on 0191-586 2621.