POLICE believe two handbag snatches which happened only five minutes apart in Gateshead, Tyneside, on Monday, may be linked.

A 78-year-old woman was knocked to the ground, in Church Road, at 12.15pm, suffering minor injuries.

Her attacker, a slim white man, in his early 20s, with brown hair, fled in a small red car, towards Durham Road.

Minutes later a 62-year-old woman had her bag snatched by a man in Kells Lane. He is described as white, 5ft 6ins, medium build, with short fair hair. He made off in a blue car displaying L-plates.

Despite the different vehicles, police believe the robberies are linked and anyone with information should call 0191-454 7555.