A 66-year-old woman was recovering in hospital today with a broken jaw after being knocked to the ground by a gang of teenage muggers.

She was left bleeding and crying with a badly cut nose as the gang ran off.

The incident happened at10pm on Tuesday night at the junction of Colne Road and Hebrew Road in Burnley.

Detectives are linking the robbery with an attack earlier in the day in Hurtley Street. A 77-year-old woman was pushed from behind by a youth riding a mountain bike.

He stole her shoulder bag but threw it away when chased by passers-by.

The victim in that incident at 11.50am yesterday was badly shocked but not hurt.

The second victim was walking down Colne Road being closely followed by the teenage group when she was attacked.

Her bag was stolen but also recovered. The youths ran off in the direction of the Co-operative Funeral Services building in Colne Road as passers-by went to help the injured woman.

She was taken to Burnley General Hospital for treatment. It was then discovered that her jaw had been broken.

Police are appealing for witnesses to either incident to contact them on Burnley 01282-425001.

Detective Sergeant Graham Briggs said a 15-year-old youth was being questioned today.

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