A gang of youths viciously attacked a 61-year-old Swinley woman as she walked to work last weekend – shouting ‘sorry love!’ as they left the victim terrified on the ground.
The woman was walking to work in the early hours of the morning on Sunday July 21 when she discovered three teenage boys trying to break into cars on Cartmel Avenue.
Despite crossing the road to avoid them and calmly continue her walk, the yobs sped up to corner her and then one sprinted down a ginnel where he charged at her, grabbing her handbag.
The second offender then pushed the terrified woman to the ground before escaping off down Spencer Road.
Swinley officer PC Myles Edwards said: “This woman may not have suffered any long-lasting injuries, but the effect on her has been truly life-changing.
“She no longer feels comfortable walking to work as she fears another attack.
“It is a real shame that this woman’s confidence has been shattered in this way but I hope that she can rebuild it in time.”
The police are now urging those with any information about the incident to come forward to help the hunt.
The offenders were all described as white, aged 14 or 15. One had a thin build with blond/ ginger short hair, about 5ft 6in tall and wearing a dark grey hoody and turquoise blue football shorts and blue trainers.
Another was slightly larger while the third was described as looking younger than the other two and having a tiny build.
The attack occurred around 4.30am.
PC Edwards said: “I now want to hear from anyone with might have information about this trio of robbers. Did you see then running away from the scene, or did you see them attempting to tamper with cars beforehand?”
Despite coming off with only a few cuts and bruises, the woman has been left deeply shaken and traumatised by the encounter.
Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
