A 79-year-old woman walking alone was attacked by a thug who stole her purse.

The incident happened in an alleyway that runs between Beecholme Drive and Nine Acres at Kennington, near Ashford, on Wednesday, March 8, at about 3.30pm.

The attack left the woman with an injured knee and a back complaint was aggravated.

Police spokeswoman Rosemary Alexander said: "The lady became aware of a person walking up behind her and stepped to one side to allow them to pass.

"As she did so, the offender grabbed her shoulders from behind and she fell to the ground. The offender wrenched at her purse, which was secured around her neck and side by a long strap, which broke.

"He ran off in the direction he had come from, taking with him her purse, which contained a small amount of cash."

Following the attack the woman made her way home from where the incident was reported.

Det Con Rocky Moan, of Weald Police, said: "This was a nasty attack on an elderly, defenceless lady."

Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area at the time of the incident is asked to contact ontact DC Moan at Ashford Police Station on 01233 896280Alternatively call Crimestoppers Hotline on 0800 555111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free, you do not have to give your name and you may be eligible for a reward.