A WOMAN has been left shaken and extremely distressed after a thief grabbed her bags as she walked home on Teesside.

The 55-year-old victim had been to the Co-op, in Normanby Road, Normanby, when she was approached from behind by a youth on a bicycle.

He snatched her handbag and her shopping bag before riding off in the direction of Teesville, at about 5.45pm on Friday.

The thief is described as white, aged 18 to 20, of medium build. He was wearing a white top, a black beanie-type hat and dark trousers, and was riding a silver BMX.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC John Burnestone on (01642) 452323.