A PENSIONER was punched in the face when she tried to stop a thief escaping with £1,000 from her home.

The victim screamed as the offender, who got in to the house after claiming he was from the gas board, snatched her handbag and made a run for the front door of the house in Stephen Close, Bury.

The robbery happened on Saturday afternoon (Nov 24) between 12.30pm and 3.30pm. Police said the woman was punched in the face when she screamed. The force of the blow knocked the woman down. She was taken to Fairfield General Hospital as a precaution.

The thief was white, aged about 24, thin, 5ft 4ins tall, with a pale complexion and red hair. He was wearing a navy blue jacket and trousers.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Bury CID on 856 8150. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.