Billericay police are appealing for witnesses after a man elbowed a woman in the face before making off with her purse containing £800.

The robber struck after following the female victim from Barclay's Bank in the High Street at about 7.30pm on Sunday to Western Road, where she had parked her car.

The woman, from Hutton, had used the cash point at the bank and was attacked just before she managed to get to her car, close to the Dragon Inn Chinese restaurant.

After spinning the woman around, the man hit her in the face before stealing her purse and running off. The woman was left shocked and with a swollen eye.

The attacker was in his early 30s, about 5ft 8ins tall with short ginger or light brown hair.

He was wearing a white T-shirt with a denim shirt over the top. He had facial stubble and an Irish accent.

The black purse, with a silver zip and press stud, is still missing.

Anyone with information should call Billericay police on 01277 631212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously,on 0800 555111

Published Tuesday, April 8, 2003

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