AN ELDERLY woman was left with a dislocated shoulder after a man snatched her bag.
Detectives in Accrington are appealing for information about the attack on the 83-year-old, and a similar attack just hours later on a 70-year-old woman.
The 83-year-old was walking near to the Margram roundabout at 1.10pm on Tuesday, when she was approached from behind by a man who snatched a black handbag from her shoulder, causing her to fall to the floor.
The man ran off towards Whalley Road with her bag containing a burgundy leather purse and a small amount of cash. The woman was taken to hospital for treatment for a dislocated shoulder.
The thief struck for a second time at 2.40pm on Dowry Street, Accrington, where a 70-year-old woman was approached from behind by a man who snatched her black handbag and a Marks and Spencer shopping bag. The man then ran off towards the town centre with a small amount of cash. The woman was not injured but was taken to hospital for a check-up.
The man was described as white, aged between 20 and 30, 6ft tall, with a slim to medium build and short fair hair.
Police are linking both incidents and are urging any witnesses to contact them.
Detective Sergeant Mark Vaughton from Accrington CID said: "Clearly this was a frightening ordeal for the two ladies and I urge any witnesses or anyone who saw a suspicious man in the area to contact us.
"We are treating these incidents very seriously and are viewing CCTV footage and making inquiries in the area.
"I urge people to be extra vigilant and to keep an eye on their handbags and shopping when out and about, particularly in the run-up to Christmas."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Accrington CID on 353741 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
