A VIOLENT thug left a woman with a broken arm and facial injuries following a vicious mugging in Bury.

The 51-year-old woman was walking home from a visit to the shops, and was approached from behind by a man who grabbed her bag and punched her in the face after she refused to let go.

The punch knocked her unconscious, and the man went on to kick her in the jaw while she was on the floor before running off with the bag.

The incident happened at about 4.15pm on Saturday, when the woman reached the junction of Carlton Street and Woodley Street.

The man is described as of Asian ethnicity, about 5ft 9in, of a slim build and wearing a dark hooded top.

Police are appealing for anyone who has seen the cream leather bag, or any of its contents, which included a black and white checked purse.

Detective Sergeant Laurence Dixon, of Bury police, said: “This was a horrible attack on a woman who was simply walking home from the shops.

“The second she showed the slightest resistance he launched into a vicious assault, punching and kicking her unconscious, before running off with her bag.

“We are now appealing for anyone with information who might have seen something or have found any of the outstanding property in their garden or wheelie bins.

“The victim has been to hospital for treatment to some really nasty injuries, but hopefully she will make a full recovery.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 9592, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.