DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a 'callous' daylight attack on a pensioner.

The 85-year-old victim was thrown to the ground and suffered a broken arm during the bag snatch, which happened at about 4pm on Monday.

The woman, who has not been named, was walking along Marlton Avenue, Blackburn, when she was approached from behind by two men.

As they tried to snatch her handbag, their elderly victim was thrown to the ground, breaking her arm and suffering bruising.

She was taken to the Blackburn Royal Infirmary where she was today recovering from her injuries.

The robbers fled empty-handed along an alleyway at the back of Kirby Road, across a football pitch and over waste ground at the rear of the Ewood Park stadium.

They were later seen drinking in Uncle Jack's pub in Branch Road, Lower Darwen.

Det Sgt Paul Withers, of Blackburn CID, said: "This was a particulary callous attack on a very elderly lady and we are keen to apprehend those responsible as quickly as possible."

The thugs were white, with dark hair, and slim build. One was in his early 20s, 5ft ft 9ins, wearing a bubble jacket, cream jeans, a light grey T-shirt and white trainers.

The other was in his late teens, 6ft, wearing a purple Timberland T-shirt, red striped top, blue jeans and white trainers.

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