AN ELDERLY woman was recovering at home last night after being robbed of a shopping bag by a young street mugger.
The 85-year-old widow, described as 'active for her age', was returning home to Thorntons Close, Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, from a shopping trip when a young man walked past.
Police said it appears he made an about-turn, ran at the woman from behind, knocking her to the ground, before grabbing her green Harrods plastic shopping bag and fleeing in a waiting small dark car.
The shaken victim, who suffered bruising to her right knee from the fall, declined hospital treatment and was being looked after at home by neighbours last night.
It is understood the bag only contained a few household objects and a newspaper.
The assailant is described as 20 - 25, 6ft, slim, with short dark hair and was wearing a navy blue top.
Witnesses to the incident, which took place at the Kings Lane entrance to Thorntons Close, at around 11am yesterday, are asked to contact Chester-le-Street CID on 0191-388 4311.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article