OAP’s gun threat terror in handbag snatch attack

Station Square car park, Lytham, where a 65-year-old woman was threatened by a man, who appeared to have a handgun, attempting to snatch her handbag

Police said the 65-year-old woman had just got back to her car, parked on Station Square car park, when she was approached by a man who threatened her and demanded her bag.

The man, who had what appeared to be a handgun, tried to grab the woman’s bag shortly after 2.30pm on Thursday, but his brave victim fought back and he ran off empty handed.

Police said the victim then chased after the would-be thief but lost him when he ran through a wooded area and out on to Agnew Street.

DS Simon Pritchard, of Blackpool CID, said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the lady involved and it is only fortunate that she was not hurt.

“I am very keen to trace the person responsible and would urge anyone with any information to come forward.

“Particularly is anyone noticed anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the offence.”

The thief is described as white, approximately 40-years-old, of slim build and with short grey hair. He was wearing a dark coloured bomber jacket and blue jeans.

Anyone with any information should contact the police on 101, quoting log reference LC20131128-0753

Alternatively they can call Crimestoppers, anonymously if necessary, on 0800 555 111