Police appeal after vicious robbery

An 87-year-old woman is recovering in hospital after a thief on a bike pushed her over as he snatched her bag.

Violet Bentley was attacked as she walked along a street in Weston-super-Mare with the aid of a frame on Friday morning.

She was left with serious injuries to her head, face and wrist, but her condition is said to be improving.

Police investigating the mugging have appealed for help to trace the robber.

Bag snatched

A 31-year-old man arrested in connection with the attack has been released without charge.

Mrs Bentley was pulled to the ground near the fitness centre in Whitecross Road at 1030 BST as the robber grabbed her shopping bag.

Her attacker made off with the bag, running in the direction of Clevedon Road.

He is described as young with dark hair, wearing blue track suit trousers with a white stripe down the leg, and a white t-shirt. He was riding a silver mountain bike.

Police investigating the robbery have urged anyone who saw what happened or who recognises the description of the suspect to contact them.

They are still trying to trace Mrs Bentley's bag, which was black with a square tapestry design on it.