A bag snatcher was foiled by a woman he tried to rob when she refused to let go of her handbag.
But his victim suffered cuts and bruises and was left very shaken by the attempted theft, in Maidenburgh Street in Colchester's Dutch Quarter.
The man, described as white, thin, about 5ft 9ins tall and wearing dark clothing, fled towards St Helen's Lane after the attempt.
Det Sgt Roger Napier appealed for anyone to come forward who witnessed the incident or could help identify the man.
Anyone with information about the incident, at about 7.30pm yesterday, should call police on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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