POLICE have launched an appeal to those celebrating on Bonfire Night after an elderly lady was robbed in Darlington.

Officers said the woman, aged 70, was making her way to the bingo when she was approached by a man and woman along Neasham Road shortly after 7pm, November 5.

It is thought they approached the lady and asked for a cigarette before a struggle ensued.

The man and woman are believed to have grabbed the lady’s purse from her handbag before making their way on foot towards Copper Beech pub.

A spokesperson from Darlington Police said: "Officers are now keen to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident, particularly those walking towards the fireworks display at the Northern Echo arena."

Anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to call DC Paul Dickenson on 101 quoting reference number 413 of November 5.