POLICE are appealing for information after an elderly woman's bag was snatched by a youth on a bike.

The woman was walking in Wesley Grove, Bishop Auckland, on Tuesday afternoon, when her bag, which containing cash and personal items, was stolen.

As she approached the paths leading to B&Q and East Parade, she stopped to let two young men, one walking and one cycling, pass her.

The bike rider grabbed her black canvas shopping bag, which had a fawn trim and handle, and the pair made off towards the B&Q store.

The bag snatcher was described as 18 5ft 7in, and of slim build, with grey-blue eyes. He wore a light cap and a navy blue tracksuit top and dark bottoms.

The other man was about 17, 5ft 8in, and of slim build. He wore a dark tracksuit and trainers.

Anyone with information, or who saw the youths leaving the scene at about 1.20pm, is asked to call PC Anne-Marie Gray, at Bishop Auckland police, on (01388) 603566.