A GOOD Samaritan came to the aid of a woman mugged in a late night attack in Bolton town centre.

The man, whom police are trying to trace, intervened as a 22-year-old woman fought with her two attackers on the pavement of a busy street.

The two female thugs eventually fled as the victim fought back refusing to release her bag. The thieves ran off when they spotted the man approaching. The victim, who has not been identified, suffered bruising to her legs and knees when she fell to the ground during the violent struggle.

Police hunting the two thieves are trying to trace the man who they believe may be able to help them.

The young victim was attacked as she was making her way home at 12.35pm on Sunday April 23.

Detectives have released descriptions of the two women involved. Both are white, aged 22 to 23, medium build, blond hair, 5ft 6ins tall. The second is also 22 to 23, with blond hair tied back and medium build.

Anyone with information or the man who came to the woman's aid are asked to contact the Bolton Police Crime Management Unit, tel: 0161 856 5593.