POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an elderly woman had her purse snatched.

The 89-year-old victim was waiting in the passenger seat of a red Vauxhall Agila in Broadway car park, Colburn, North Yorkshire, at about 6.40pm yesterday, when a woman approached, asking for change.

The victim opened the window and got out her purse, which the woman snatched.

She stole a bank card before dropping the purse and leaving the scene in a silver Audi car.

The suspect, who was wearing a white shawl around her shoulders and spoke in a foreign accent, is believed to be aged about 30 and of eastern European appearance.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to the incident to come forward with information.

PC Huw Williams, of Richmond police, said: "Fortunately, the elderly victim was not injured in the incident but she was very shaken up by the experience.

"Targeting elderly people in this manner is cowardly and cold-hearted and we are doing all we can to find out who is responsible.

"I am appealing to the people of Colburn to help us with our investigations and urge anyone who witnessed the incident or saw a silver Audi around the time of theft, to contact the police with information.

"I also appeal to anyone who may have been approached in similar circumstances get in touch. Even if nothing was taken from you, you may have information vital to our inquiries."

Witnesses are asked to call PC Williams, on 0845-60-60-24-7, quoting quoting reference number 12110103348.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.