Man arrested minutes after theft of woman's bag

A 79-year-old woman was knocked to the ground and had her shopping bag stolen in broad daylight during a mugging in Whitchurch, police said today.

Officers arrested a man minutes after the woman was targeted at about 2.15pm yesterday.

The incident happened in Elizabeth Street, near the junction with Edgerton Place.

A man ran up to the woman, grabbed her shopping bag and fled.

The woman, who fell to the ground, reported her bag contained various items including about £40 cash.

Police were at the scene within minutes and arrested a man in Talbot Street on suspicion of theft. He was later released on bail.

Richard Ewels, police spokesman, said: "Police were quickly alerted of the incident by a member of the public and were able to search the area and arrest a suspect within minutes of it happening.

"We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the theft to contact Whitchurch police station on 03003 333000."