POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an attempted robbery in Bishop Auckland last week.

A woman was followed by a teenager after she left Bishop Auckland College on Wednesday night last week at about 10pm.

The youth came out of a path alongside St John's School and followed her across the road, before approaching her at the junction of Helena Terrace and demanding her purse.

The woman was wearing the purse on her right wrist and the youth tried unsuccessfully to pull it from her.

He fled towards the Woodhouse Close Estate, grabbing the hood of her coat, when a group of people appeared.

The teenager has been described as being aged about 15.

He had blond, spiky hair and was of medium build. He was wearing denim jeans and a dark training top.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or recognises the image is asked to call police on (01388) 603566.