A WOMAN is recovering after fighting off a yob who tried to snatch her handbag as he rode past on a bike.

The 62-year-old resisted when he grabbed her bag and shouted at her at about 5pm, in Tweed Road, Hartlepool, on Wednesday.

After a struggle, he fled empty-handed, leaving her shaken and with a sore shoulder.

Police are hunting the boy aged about 13, who has a high-pitched voice and was wearing a denim cap, a worn top with green striped cuffs, dark bottoms with black and white trainers. He was riding a black bike.

Anyone with information is asked to call (01642) 302126.