A LONE woman walking home from an early evening church service was robbed by a youth who snatched her bag.

Madeline Threlkeld, 49, gave chase after the attack on Bennington Street, Blackburn, but failed to catch the thief who jumped into a waiting car.

The black leather "organiser" style bag contained nothing of significant value but Mrs Threlkeld today appealed for the return of two sets of rosary beads which hold great sentimental value.

She said: "I thought he was just pushing past me until I saw that he was carrying my bag.

"A car was waiting in the side street to pick him up. I can't run very fast and he was like a greyhound.

"I was shaken but fortunately uninjured."

Mrs Threlkeld, a cleaner at British Aerospace, Samlesbury, had attended evening mass at nearby St Joseph's Church.

She added: "My husband warned me not to walk home alone but I thought I would be all right as it was so early in the evening.

"I am not bothered about the small amount of cash stolen or the cards, which I have cancelled, but would like the rosary beads back."

The attack took place at 7.15pm on Thursday.

Anyone who can help is asked to ring Blackburn police on 01254 51212.

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