Pensioner attacked and robbed by teenage boy in West Lothian

A 72-year-old woman had her purse stolen during a frightening'' attack in West Lothian.

The incident happened shortly before 9am on Friday, while the pensioner was walking along Park Lane, Whitburn.

She was approached by a boy she did not recognise, believed to be aged 15 or 16, who grabbed her arm and stole her purse.

The pensioner stumbled into a fence before the culprit made off towards Gilchrist Crescent.

Detective Sergeant Mark Gibson, of Bathgate CID, said: This was a frightening experience for the woman, who has been left very upset by this attack.

We are eager to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the attack, or may have any further information which may assist our enquiries.

Anyone with information is asked to get in touch with us immediately.''

The suspect has an average build, is around 5ft and has light brown hair.

He was wearing a dark bomber-style jacket with light blue jeans.

The 72-year-old was uninjured in the attack.

Anyone with information should contact officers at Bathgate CID on 101, quoting incident number 0747 of September 8, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.