A WOMAN was punched in the face during an attempted street mugging.

The victim was attacked by two men in Bowburn, near Durham on Saturday night.

She was walking between Mary and Bede Terrace at around 9.30pm when she was approached by the two, both thought to be in their late teens, who tried to grab her car keys and mobile phone.

During the scuffle, one thug punched her in the face, before they both fled empty-handed.

Both men are described as being of slim build and both were wearing sweatshirts.

Detective Constable Alan Meehan, from Durham City CID, said: “This was clearly a shocking and painful incident for the lady involved who suffered injuries to her face during the assault.

"With this in mind I am keen to hear from anyone who can help to identify these men. Anyone with information should contact police urgently.”

Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call Durham Police on 101 and quote the crime reference 101/1809.