A 92-year-old woman's arm was broken when she was mugged - for a pack of minced meat.

The pensioner was walking home from shops along a back street near Cleaver Street, Duke Bar, Burnley, when the robber grabbed her and pushed her over.

He snatched her shopping bag, containing just the mince, and ran off.

The victim, who lives in a nearby sheltered housing complex, struggled to get off the floor and was helped by a good Samaritan who came to her aid.

The incident happened between 2.30pm and 3pm on Saturday.

Police have branded the attack "disgusting".

Detective Constable Dave Hindle said: "This was a despicable attack on an elderly woman walking back home after she had been shopping. He has stolen her shopping which amounts to nothing and was just a pack of mince.

"We would appeal for anybody with information about the incident to contact police and an Asian man who assisted the lady to also come forward as he might have vital information."

Following the incident the victim did not go to hospital and was taken home.

However, she later visited the doctor and was found to have suffered a broken arm.

Residents have sent her flowers and a get well soon card.

Bank Hall councillor Gary Frayling urged people in the area to help the police catch the offender.

He said: "It is disgusting that this has happened and it is important the person is caught.

"There have been flowers sent to the lady from the residents of Duke Bar.

"When something like this happens the community rallies round."

Fellow ward councillor, Justin Birtwistle added: "It is deplorable what some people will do."

The robber was described as Asian, with dark skin, in his 30s, slim and scruffy looking. He was wearing dark clothes.

Anybody with information should contact DC Hindle on 01282 472280.