A TERRIFIED woman shopper fought off a robber who attacked her and tried to steal her handbag in a supermarket car park.

The thief, who was in a white Transit van, struck at Asda in Rawtenstall at 12.30pm on Sunday.

He got out of the passenger door of the van as the 43-year-old victim returned to her car, which was parked in the next bay.

As she was getting into her car, the man tapped on the window and asked for money.

When the woman did not give him any he demanded that she hand over her purse and became violent, punching her on the arm.

She punched him back and managed to get into her car and drive away from the scene.

The victim reported the incident to the police as soon as she got home.

The offender is described as white, around 45, with short sandy, blond hair. He was wearing a tartan patterned lumberjack shirt and jeans.

The door of the van that he got out of is described as being white and rusty. Police street crime co-ordinator, Brent Field, said the police wanted to hear from anyone who recognised the description, or who noticed anything suspicious in Asda car park on Sunday. He said: "Last autumn we saw a significant increase in bag thefts, particularly among the elderly.

"This year we are keen to prevent that happening again, which is why we are urging all shoppers to be on their guard."

He added: "There are a number of very easy things that people can do to help prevent becoming a victim of street crime.

"These include not taking more money out with you than you need, keeping purses and wallets in an inside coat pocket where possible and keeping valuables like mobile phones safe. People also need to be aware of who is around them and report any suspicious incidents.

"Where possible, I would also advise people to stick to busier well-lit areas late at night.

"These are all simple things but they can make a big difference when it comes to helping us prevent street crime."

Free personal safety advice leaflets are now available at all local police stations across Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

Personal safety alarms are also available for sale at £4 each from local police stations.

Anyone with any information about the attempted robbery at Asda are asked to telephone the police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.