Thug attacks 66-year-old woman in attempted robbery in Horley (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Thug attacks 66-year-old woman in attempted robbery in Horley

4:42pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News

A 66-year-old woman was left very shaken and injured after being hit over the head with what police believe was a brick in an attempted robbery in Horley.

The pensioner from Horley was set upon by a hooded thug as she was walking home along the B2036 Balcombe Road.

She had reached a spot opposite the road's junction with Fernhill Road when her attacker stole up on her from behind.

The yob, who was wearing a dark hoodie-type top with the hood up, hit her on the head with what police believe was a brick.

He then tried to grab her handbag, but she clung on and he failed, and ran off in the direction of woodland behind Gatwick Airport.

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: “The victim was understandably extremely shaken by this incident and suffered cuts to her head, and also her knee, as she fell forward.”

But despite being badly shaken, the woman did not go to hospital for treatment.

The spokeswoman said: “We are not currently linking this to any other incidents in the area.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to the attempted robbery which happened between 7pm and 7.30pm on Thursday, February 21.

The attacker was described as male, about 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, and was wearing a dark hoodie with the hood up, and dark trousers.

Anyone with information is urged to call Sussex Police on 101, quoting serial 0734 of 3 March. Alternatively, people can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.