THE CRIMINAL underworld are being urged to hand in one of their own after a 78-year-old woman suffered a vicious attack in Nelson.

Detective Inspector Derek Jones today appealed directly to criminals to come forward with information and also called on other witnesses to do the same.

The pensioner needed hospital treatment after a robbery in Chapel House Road at the junction with Railway Street on Monday at around 10am.

Police said the offender followed the pensioner and knocked her to the ground as grabbed her black leather handbag containing cash and a Nokia mobile phone.

People at the scene came to the victim's aid and called for an ambulance. She was taken to Burnley General Hospital and given treatment for facial injuries including a black eye and an injury to her shoulder.

Police said she was recovering but was left extremely shaken and upset by the attack. DI Jones, of Nelson Police, added: "This is a nasty attack on an elderly lady.

"I have reviewed the police interview with the lady on video tape and she's been left very shaken and nervous.

"We would appeal to everybody, including the criminal fraternity in Nelson, who may know anything about this incident to contact us.

"I would ask them to search their consciences and come forward with any information they may have.

"We believe the offender may have been loitering in the area prior to the attack. If anybody finds the bag discarded we would also ask them to get in contact with us."

The offender is described as white, in his late 20s, about 5ft 7ins, slim, with fair cropped hair and wearing a white top.

Anyone with information should contact police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.