A BRAVE pensioner refused to hand over her handbag to a teenage mugger as she walked along a Darlington street.

The woman heard the youth call out from behind her, demanding that she hand over the bag.

The 67-year-old clung to it as the attacker tried to wrestle it from her. She suffered a bang to the head and bruising to the ribs after he pulled her to the ground.

Despite her injuries, the woman refused to give in and the youth ran off. The attack happened at about 7pm on Sunday, in Havelock Street.

The youth is described as white, 16 years old, about 5ft, medium build, with short, fair hair. He spoke with a local accent.

Detective Constable Peter Eddy, of Darlington police, said it was a despicable act against an elderly woman who was on her own. He praised her tenacity at refusing to let the teenager get away with the bag.

Anybody who has any information is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111