A THIEF snatched a pensioner's handbag as she did her shopping.

The 66-year-old was walking down the rear of Cresswell Street, Walker, Newcastle, at about 2.30pm on Monday, when he grabbed her shopping bag from her shoulder.

He was aged 18 or 19 and was wearing a cream jacket. He made off towards Wellbeck Road.

The woman's blue bag has not yet been recovered. Anyone with information is asked to call Newcastle East CID on 0191-214 6555, ext 62242.