Disabled woman 'punched in the head' in attempted robbery

The victim was targeted in Tyldesley Town Centre on Tuesday afternoo

Published 22nd Jun 2018

A disabled woman has been left 'shaken' and 'terrified' after she was punched in the face during an attempted robbery in Wigan.

The victim, in her 30s, was in her electric wheelchair and was travelling through the field at Shakerley Estate in Tyldesley after shopping in the town centre.

She was approached by a man who tried to snatch her handbag.

A struggle ensued, at which point, the man viciously punched the woman on the back of the head, causing her to scream. He then fled in the direction of the Town Centre.

The man is described as white, aged between 40 and 50 years old, of slim build and with short grey hair. He had a goatee beard and was wearing a yellow coat.

Detective Constable Chris Waddicar, from GMP’s Leigh Criminal Investigation Department, said: “I am shocked by the brutality of this attack, on an innocent and defenceless woman.

“Fortunately, the man was unable to get away with the woman’s handbag but she has been left shaken and terrified.

“We are appealing for members of the public who saw anyone matching the description of the man, or those who witnessed this incident, to please get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should call police on 0161 856 7292 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111