Two women robbers were today being hunted after they attacked a young woman and stole her handbag as she walked home alone in Basildon.

Police today praised the 24-year-old victim for her "plucky" effort to keep hold of her property even though she was faced with the two thugs.

She was walking along Cherrydown, near the bus depot, when an old car pulled up beside her at around 9.15pm on Monday.

The passenger got out and tried to snatch her handbag.

The woman, who lives in Basildon and has not been named, was having none of it and a struggle took place which led to the driver getting out of the car and wading in.

In the commotion the victim was punched in the face by both attackers and left bruised, but didn't need hospital treatment.

The handbag contained cash and credit cards. Both women were white, in their early 20s with south Essex accents.

The passenger was slim, 5ft 5in tall with long, brown hair tied in a ponytail. She wore a pastel coloured top, jeans and trainers.

The driver had long, dark hair, wore a gold ring, black T-shirt and jeans. The dark car was an "old" model which was either grey or blue.

Call Pitsea CID 01268 584212 with any information.

Published Wednesday August 4, 2004

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