A 48-YEAR-OLD woman was admitted to hospital after being wrestled to the floor by a robber who stole her handbag.

She was released soon afterwards, but police said she was very shaken by the incident in Lambeth Street, Higher Audley, Blackburn, at 12.10pm on Thursday.

She was walking along at the Copy Nook end of the road when the robber approached from behind.

He wrestled her to the floor as he prised the handbag from her grasp.

The man ran off towards Audley Range along an alley, throwing the bag away after removing her purse, containing cash and keys.

The man was described as white, in his 20s, of a stocky build and with short, black hair. He was wearing a white, hooded top with black stripes, dark jogging pants and black trainers.

Anyone with information should call Blackburn CID on 01254 353569 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.