Man slashed on hand in bag snatch

A man was slashed across the hand during a robbery on a Newcastle street.

The 54-year-old was attacked from behind while he walked along Molineux Street at the back of Shields Road on Wednesday morning.

He suffered a cut and his bag, which contained only a flask, was stolen. His attacker ran off towards Heaton Road.

A police spokesman said: "This was a cowardly attack where excessive force was used and it could have resulted in a more serious injury."

The robber is described as possibly being of Asian origin, about 5ft 8in (1.7m) tall and wearing a dark hooded top.

Any witnesses are asked to contact Northumbria Police.