A SECOND mugging in a week has prompted Richmond police to warn people to be on their guard until the culprit is caught.

A pensioner was knocked to the ground by the robber who tried to snatch her handbag while she walked along the town's Bargate at 12.15pm on Monday.

The 84-year-old victim was taken to hospital with a head injury.

The man fled empty handed when he was challenged by a passer-by.

He ran towards Newbiggin and then down Rosemary Lane.

He is described as thin and was wearing a dark woolly hat and clothing.

The attempted robbery follows a similar attack in the same area of the town on Tuesday, January 21, when another elderly woman had her handbag snatched by a man whose description was close to that given by the second victim.

A police spokesman said yesterday: "We suspect the two robberies are connected and would suggest that people, especially the elderly or vulnerable, are especially vigilant until we catch the man responsible."

He said: "It seems likely the robber is local and there must be someone out there who knows something which could help.

"We would urge them to come forward before this man commits any more crimes.''

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives, on (01609) 789358, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.