AN elderly woman was pushed to the floor by a teenage robber who snatched her handbag.

The 69-year-old was robbed on Eldon Street, in the late afternoon attack off Wigan Road, Leigh.

The shaken victim was grabbed from behind by the thief, who initially attempted to pull the victim's handbag away from her arm. However, when the woman put up a struggle the attacker pusher her over and stole her bag containing cash and credit cards.

The woman suffered minor bruising to her arms and legs.

Police are seeking a white youth, about 15-years-old, 5ft 4in tall, and slim build who wore a dark, hooded top.

He is believed to have been in a bright blue, late model Vauxhall Corsa, with the registration bearing the last three letters 'MLG' seen heading towards Wigan Road after the attack at 3.50pm on Thursday, December 20 Police are now appealing to anyone who has information to come forward.

Police Constable John Catterall said: "The thief is clearly a desperate individual who has caused a lone, elderly woman immeasurable distress.

"From the description we have, it is possible this is a teenager who needed cash but to target a woman in this manner is a cowardly and despicable act. As a result, the woman has been left with not just bruising but a great deal of emotional upset.

"I appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident, or has information, to call us.

"Anyone show saw this bright blue Corsa in the vicinity around the time of the robbery, or driving at high speeds in the local area, should contact us by calling 101 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.