AN attempted robbery took place at about 5pm on Wednesday, June 12, after a man tried to steal a woman's handbag.

The victim was walking along the footpath between Metallink and Bonds Foundry factory near Prospect Road in Crook.

A man described as being in his late 20’s with thick brown hair, wearing a black tracksuit approached the woman and asked her for a cigarette which she gave him.

He then asked for money but when the woman refused the man became aggressive and attempted to steal her handbag without success.

Police are now keen to trace a female dog walker who was seen on the footpath at the time of the incident walking from the direction of Peases Way.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to contact PC Jason Quye on 101 quoting reference number 324 of June 12.