Police have appealed for help in identifying a mugger injured after targeting an 81-year-old woman in Southend.

An Essex Police spokesman said the pensioner had her purse stolen but managed to scratch the face of her assailant when she was attacked at 1pm on Thursday in the Brightwell Avenue area of Westcliff.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who can identify the suspect, who will have recent facial injuries. He was described as white, aged 18-22, plump, and with a shaven head. He was wearing a black hooded jacket.

Anyone with information has been asked to contact Southend police on 01702 431212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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