TWO Good Samaritans helped save a woman who was dragged to the ground and threatened by a knifeman.

Eston Police are appealing for a driver who stopped his car to help the victim of the attempted robbery and a dog walker who may have seen the suspect run off to contact them.

"One man driving a people carrier pulled up to help when he saw the 51-year-old woman being attacked on Mansfield Road in Eston at around 7pm on Friday night," said a spokeswoman for Cleveland Police.

"The woman was leaving an address when she was approached by a man who ran towards her before dragging her to the ground.

"The suspect threatened the woman with a knife and tried to steal her handbag. Fortunately he was disturbed by members of the public and he ran off along Mansfield Road towards Bankfields Primary School."

The victim attended James Cook University Hospital for treatment to cuts and bruising to her head and body.

"The suspect is described as between 5ft 8ins  and 6ft tall, of medium build and wearing a dark hooded top, with his face covered.

"A second man is believed to be involved. He is described as of slim build and wearing dark clothing. Both men had been seen acting suspiciously on Mansfield Road prior to the incident."

Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnesses the incident or seen anyone acting suspicious in the area.

In particular they believe the driver of the people carrier and the man walking his dog may have useful information. Contact DC Glen Harland on the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively you can pass information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org