A WOMAN was pulled to the floor and dragged along the pavement when she tried to stop teenagers stealing her handbag.

The 51-year-old was walking past Booze Busters on Dalton Way in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, at about 10.30pm on Saturday, December 22, when she was approached by two men on bicycles.

One of the men grabbed her handbag, pulling her to the ground. The woman was then dragged along the pavement for several metres before she eventually had to let go to prevent further injury.

The suspect made off through Newton Aycliffe town centre with her handbag and purse.

Both men are believed to be 17 or 18-years-old and are described as being white and of a slim to medium build. The one who stole the handbag was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava.

Police want to speak to any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident.

They would especially like to speak to any taxi drivers or people using the take away shops on Greenwell Road who might have seen the suspects going to or from the location.

Anyone who has found a white Marks and Spencer leather handbag or brown leather purse in or around the town centre is also asked to contact the serious crime team at Newton Aycliffe on 101.