A SHOP worker was left with a perforated ear drum after she was attacked by a mugger.

The woman, in her early 20s, was hit over the back of the head as she walked in Orchard Road, Darlington, near its junction with Hollyhurst Road, on Monday morning.

Police said a substantial amount of money, which she was carrying from a nearby shop where she works to the post office, was snatched.

Detective Constable Jo Slater, of Darlington police, described the attack as "a nasty one".

"She was hit from behind and fell to the floor, and the man has taken the bag of money from her and made off," said Det Con Slater.

"The woman is very upset and shocked and is recovering at home."

The woman was treated in hospital for the injury to her ear, and cuts and bruises.

Her attacker was described as wearing a blue hooded top.

Anyone with information about the incident, which happened at about 11am, is asked to call police on (01325) 467681.