A BRAVE elderly woman was dragged to the floor when her handbag was snatched by a man on a bicycle.

The 78-year-old woman was on her way home, walking from Market Street in Atherton to the back of St John the Baptist Church, when she was attacked.

The victim tried to cling on to the bag during the attack at 10.50am on September 21 but the man was able to escape with it after the woman had fallen to the floor.

He is described as white, young in age and was wearing dark grey clothes.

Det Con Stuart Woodhead said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim and she is understandably extremely shaken by what happened.

“The woman tried to stop the offender stealing her bag, but he was determined and dragged her to the floor.

“I would like to remind people to be extra vigilant when carrying significant amounts of money or valuables with them.

“We want to catch the offender as soon as possible and I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident, to contact us immediately.”

Anyone with information should call 0161 856 7292 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.