Bracknell

Police are appealing for witnesses to a robbery in Bracknell where a cyclist grabbed a handbag from a woman.

The 49-year-old victim was walking home along Larges Lane after using the ATMs at Barclays Bank in Bracknell High Street, when a man rode past her from behind and tried to grab her handbag.

A struggle ensued between the two which caused the offender to fall off his bike.

He then punched the victim on her left arm and rode away with her handbag in the direction of Mount Pleasant and the railway line at the bottom of Larges Lane.

The victim’s handbag contained £200, a mobile phone and credit cards.

The incident happened at 8.40pm yesterday (2/1).

PC Richard Probert, from Bracknell police station, who is leading the investigation, said: “Although the victim sustained no major injuries in the incident she was visibly shaken by her ordeal and is understandably distraught at this very nasty attack.”

The offender is white, aged 16-20, 5ft 4ins and slim and he was wearing a light blue/grey hooded top and dark coloured trousers with trainers.

The victim’s handbag is black, around 30cm long, with brown leather handles and large pockets on the front and rear.

Anyone with any information should contact PC Probert, at Bracknell Police Station, via 0845 8 505 505.

Alternatively, please call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell