TWO women fought off a would-be robber on their way back from visiting a friend in hospital.

Police are now warning visitors to Blackburn Royal Infirmary to be vigilant following the attempted robbery at 11pm on Saturday.

The women, aged 47 and 49, were heading towards the Ivy pub in Infirmary Street after visiting a friend in the hospital when a man came up to them and struck up a conversation with them.

Police said he convinced them he was friendly.

He linked arms with them both and the trio reached the junction with Walsh Street near to the pub where he suddenly grabbed one of the women's handbags.

The robber dragged her to the floor in a bid to wrestle it free.

But he was unable to do so and ended up running off down an alleyway at the back of Walsh Street.

A man matching his description was seen 20 minutes before the attempted robbery sitting on a bench in Bolton Road opposite the Moorings pub.

Sergeant Geoff Bromley said: "We don't yet know if it was planned or opportunist.

"I know members of the public coming and going from Blackburn Royal Infirmary have other things on their mind but this highlights that they should remain alert and vigilant."

The man was described as white, aged 38, of medium build, 5ft8in tall and wearing a black baseball cap.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Sgt Bromley on 01254 353568 with information.