Police are appealing for witnesses or information after a woman was robbed in Newton Aycliffe.

On Saturday 22nd December 2012 at about 10.30pm, a 51 year old woman was robbed of her handbag and purse on Dalton Way, Newton Aycliffe.

There were two male suspects on push bikes, both aged 17 or 18. One of them approached the woman and grabbed her handbag, which resulted in her being pulled to the ground and dragged along the pavement for a few metres before she eventually had to let go to prevent further injury. The teenaager made off through Aycliffe Town Centre with the handbag.

Both of the suspects are described as being white, of slim to medium build. The one who stole the handbag was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava.

Police want to speak to any witnesses or anyone who has any information. They particular want to speak to any taxi drivers or people using the take away shops on Greenwell Road. who might have seen the suspects going to or from the location, which was outside Booze Busters.

They also want to hear from anyone who might have found a white Marks and Spencer leather handbag or brown leather purse in or around the town centre.

Anyone with information should ring 101 and ask for the serious crime team at Newton Aycliffe.