POLICE are hunting a robber who threatened to stab a woman before stealing her handbag.

The incident occurred in Corporation Road, Darlington, on Tuesday night.

The 37-year-old victim had just got out of her car when she was approached by a man who demanded that she gave him her bag.

When she refused, he produced a pair of kitchen scissors and threatened to stab her.

He then cut the strap of the handbag and, when she went to pick it up from the floor, he pushed her to the ground. He picked up the bag and ran off in the direction of Northgate.

Detective Constable Danny Townsend, of Darlington police, said the bag contained a purse, credit cards and medication.

The offender is described as being white, about 5ft 3in tall, aged about 27, with short brown hair. He was clean shaven and wearing a blue and grey jacket.

Anyone with information about the incident, which happened at about 6.30pm, should contact police on (01325) 467681.