A WOMAN has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery following an incident in Middlesbrough.

Police say a woman in her twenties was reportedly approached by another woman in Bishopton Road, in Grove Hill, on Monday, who demanded she hand over her mobile phone. 

It happened between 4pm and 4.20pm.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: "A woman, aged in her twenties, was reportedly approached by another woman, who demanded that the victim hand over her mobile phone.

"When the victim refused, the suspect grabbed hold of a carrier bag that the victim was holding, causing it to rip open and the contents fall onto the floor, which the suspect then attempted to pick up.

"The victim and suspect struggled, before the suspect left empty handed."

A 31-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery and possession of a class C drug.

She has been bailed with conditions while inquiries continue.

Police are appealing for anyone who saw what happened to come forward

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact PC Andrew Yau from Middlesbrough Police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting event number 167764.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.