A 32-year-old woman was subjected to a vicious attack and robbed of her handbag as she walked home.

The mature student was hit around the head and sprayed in the face with an aerosol, believed to be an air freshener, as she walked near the Marquis of Lorne pub in Mill Road, Gillingham.

The female attacker grabbed the woman's bag and ran off down Mill Road. Her handbag was found later, but the purse had been stolen.

A description has been issued of the attacker. She is said to be tall and thin with shoulder-length hair, which was worn in a ponytail. She was wearing a black jacket, tight black trousers and possibly trainers. Officers believe another person may have been involved in the incident.

Medway Police would also like to talk to a man who was seen running down an alleyway next to the Black Lion pub towards Fox Street at the time of the robbery.

Anyone who may have information in connection with this incident, which happened last Thursday evening, is asked to call Medway Police 01634 884252 or Crimestoppers for free on 0800 555 111.