A MAN collapsed while giving chase to thieves who stole his sister's handbag.

The 56-year-old man, who is an epileptic, was discharged after receiving treatment and being detained overnight in The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.

He had been walking with his 66-year-old sister along Union Street, Middlesbrough, at 11.50pm on Monday.

Two men ran up behind the couple as they reached the corner of Union Street with Windsor Street and one of them ripped the woman's bag from her shoulder.

The thief ran off along Windsor Road, and the victim's brother gave chase.

The man was taken ill as he chased the thief along Windsor Street and an ambulance was called.

The thief made off with a black leather-style bag containing cash and a photograph of the woman's first great-grandchild, which is of great sentimental value to the victim.

The bag snatcher is black, in his 20s, about 6ft, of medium build with short, straight, dark hair. He was wearing a white fleece and black trousers.

The second man, who is also described as black, was wearing an orange bandana. He shrugged his shoulders, telling the woman that the theft was nothing to do with him, then walked off along Union Street.

Cleveland Police are particularly keen to speak to a white man seen running from Windsor Street after the man collapsed.

The man is in his late 20s and was wearing a cream top and cap.

Anyone with informa- tion is asked to contact Middlesbrough CID on (01642) 303126.