Police step up hunt for crooks who gran bravely fought off (From St Helens Star)

Police step up hunt for crooks who gran bravely fought off

7:00pm Friday 21st September 2012 in News

A PENSIONER bravely clung on to her handbag as two robbers attempted to snatch it from outside a supermarket.

The crooks struck as the 71-year-old was leaving Tesco on Steley Way, Prescot.

But as they attempted to grab the bag, she struggled and refused to let go. The thieves instead stole items from her shopping trolley.

The pensioner heard someone blow a whistle and they ran towards a light blue coloured vehicle, parked opposite the health centre on Sewell Street.

Detective Inspector John Webster, said: “This was a despicable and callous crime against a vulnerable, elderly woman going about her daily business.

“The offenders have left this woman shaken and traumatised following the incident.

“We are absolutely determined to find these offenders so they cannot commit further crimes but we need the public’s help.

“I would appeal for people to cast their minds back and if they saw anything that seemed suspicious, to contact us with that information.

“Information that seems trivial to them may turn out to be crucial for us in catching these offenders.”

The incident happened at about noon on Friday, September 7 The first robber is described as white, in his 40s, 6ft tall and of medium build. He had fair coloured shaven hair and stubble and was wearing a dark coloured top and trainers. His general appearance was described as scruffy. The second man is also white, in his 40s and skinny.

Anyone who can help police should call 0151 777 6568 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.