AN 84-year-old woman was taken to hospital with a suspected broken arm when she was bundled to the ground and mugged moments after collecting her pension.

Darwen Police today described the crime as "horrendous" and appealed for a key eye-witness to come forward.

The woman, who has not been named by police, was attacked between 9.15 and 9.30am yesterday after collecting her pension from Hollins Grove Sub-Post Office, Blackburn Road, Darwen.

Inspector Tracie O'Gara said the man pounced from a doorway of a nearby travel agents as she approached the junction of Blackburn Street and Snape Street and may have been lying in wait.

The amount of cash stolen was not disclosed.

As the attacker grabbed her handbag the lady was pushed to the ground.

She was taken to Blackburn Royal Infirmary with a suspected broken arm and was said by police to be "poorly."

Inspector O'Gara said: "Her face is bruised and she is in a very distraught state.

"This is a horrendous attack and we are appealing for people to come forward if they saw anyone acting suspiciously in that area around that time.

"Any information which will be treated in strict confidence."

Inspector O'Gara said officers dealing with the case were particularly keen to talk to a man who may have witnessed the attack.

She said: "A man went into a fruit and vegetable shop and told the owner to telephone the police. This was an awful attack and we are desperate to find those responsible."

Anybody with information should contact DC Braithwaite or DC Geogarty at Darwen Police in 01254 701777 or 353842.