A 33-YEAR-OLD woman had her handbag snatched as she walked to work in Leigh.

A man riding a pedal bike approached her from behind as she was walking along Henrietta Street, before grabbing the bag and forcing it from her hand.

He then cycled off in the direction of Bold Street.

The incident happened at 8.55am on Thursday, May 29.

PC Kat Tyldesley, from Leigh INPT, said: "This man has proved how cowardly he is by approaching the woman from a position she would not be able to see him.

"There has been a brief struggle before he has managed to overpower her and take the bag, containing a purse and mobile phone.

"Due to the time of the incident, we believe there would have been a number of people in the area and I would urge anyone who may have witnessed the robbery or have any information, to call us."

The offender is described as being 6ft, of thin build and wore dark grey hooded top with the hood up.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 7292 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.