90-year-old woman tries to chase handbag thief

A deaf and partially sighted 90-year-old woman tried to chase a robber who stole her handbag.

And Oldham police are now hunting the mugger, who attacked the pensioner in the car park of the Asda supermarket, Chadderton shortly after 2pm on New Year’s day.

The woman was crossing the car park on the Burnley Street side when the robber jumped on her back and spun her round. He stole her handbag and ran off around the back of the store and along Radclyffe Street.

The woman tried to chase him, but had to give up.

A couple saw the man running away and found the pensioner’s purse, but cash had been taken from it. The offender is described as being white, between 5ft 10ins and 6ft tall and of slim build. He was wearing a dark jacket and hat.

Det Cons Colette Kelleher, said: “This was a shocking attack on a woman who is particularly vulnerable. She has been left extremely shaken.

“There were quite a few people in the area at the time and I’m appealing to them to get in touch if they saw the incident or if they saw the offender before he struck.

“I would also ask people to be on the look-out for this offender and report any sightings of anyone acting suspiciously in the area.

“I don’t want people to be unduly frightened, but I’d advise people, especially elderly people, to be extra vigilant.”

Anyone with any information should call police on 0161-856 1978 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.