A PENSIONER has been left 'very shaken' after a 'shocking' attempted robbery in Whitworth.

The victim, who is in her 70s, was walking in Massey Croft when she approached from behind by a man at around 5:40pm on Monday.

He grabbed her by the neck and demanded her purse. He left the scene empty-handed when he realised she had nothing of value.

The attacker is described as a white male, aged in his 30s to 40s, 5ft 9in tall, with facial stubble. H

He was wearing a dark jacket, dark bottoms and a hat with fur on the front. He spoke with a local accent.

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Det Con Hannah Tofalos, of Burnley CID, said: “This was a particularly shocking attempted robbery where a woman in her 70s was targeted for her purse.

“The victim has been left very shaken and it is vital we find the person responsible.

“If you were in the area around the time of the offence, or saw anyone acting suspiciously, please call police.

“The victim has provided a good description of the attacker and we believe someone will know who this is.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting crime reference EF1700645.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org