A 23-YEAR-old mother was pushed by a robber who stole her handbag from a pram.

Police said the woman was walking in a ginnel off Booth Road, Waterfoot, at 11am on Friday.

Detective Sergeant Andy Gilbert said: "She was pushing a buggy with her two children at her side.

"One of the children dropped a hat but when she stopped to pick it up the offender came up behind her, pushed her and as she lost her balance he snatched her handbag from the handle of the pram."

The black handbag contained £96 worth of social security benefits. The offender is described as a young white male, with a black, hooded jacket and wearing black jeans.

Anybody with information is asked to called Rossendale CID on 01706 237440 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.