Would-be mugger targets pensioner

They are appealing for witnesses to the attempted theft, which happened on Marsh Street, Wombwell, last Monday.

A police spokesman said: “The man allegedly attempted to grab the 83-year-old woman’s handbag, however she was able to hold onto it and call out for help.

“A passer-by then came to assist the woman and the suspect ran away empty-handed.”

The suspect is described as white, in his twenties and of slim build and wearing a red baseball cap.

Anyone with information should contact South Yorkshire Police by dialling 101, quoting incident number 554 of January 7.