A WOMAN was punched in the face and had her wedding and engagement rings stolen from her by a robber in Stanley, County Durham.

The victim was at the entrance to Westfields in South Moor at about 6.45pm on Friday night (January 22) when she was approached by the man who grabbed hold of her by the neck and demanded money.

When the victim, a woman in her mid-40s, said she had none, the assailant stole her engagement and wedding rings - both in white gold - from her before punching her in the face and running off into Westfields, a residential area.

Detective Constable Chris Bentham, of Durham Constabulary, said: “This lady was on her way home from work when the robber struck.

"Fortunately, she was not seriously hurt, but this was a very frightening experience for her and she has been left badly shaken by it.

"Clearly, her engagement and wedding rings are of great sentimental value to her and to have had them taken in this way has been extremely distressing for her.”

The robber, who was wearing a scarf covering part of his face, is described as between 18 and 25 years old, about 5ft 10ins tall and of chubby build. He was wearing dark clothing, including a hoodie top.

DC Bentham added: “I would appeal to anyone with information that can help us trace this man to come forward. He came from the direction of Westfields and ran back that way so it is possible he lives in that area.”

Please contact CID at Stanley via the non-emergency number 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.