A WOMAN with cerebral palsy was left "shaken and terrified" after being punched in the head in an attempted robbery on Tuesday afternoon.

Police were called to the Shakerley estate in Tyldesley at around 1.50pm after a woman in her 30s was approached by man who tried to steal her handbag while she was in her electric wheelchair.

After a struggle, the man punched the woman in the back of her head causing her to scream.

The suspect then fled in the direction of Tyldesley town centre.

He is described as white, aged between 40 and 50 years old, of slim build and has short grey hair. He had a goatee beard and wore 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.”

If you have any information contact police on 0161 856 7292 or the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.