POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a thief reached over a pensioner's shoulder and grabbed her purse from her handbag.

The 66-year-old woman was approached from behind by the man as she walked along Crompton Way, near Bolton North fire station, Hall i' th' Wood. Her purse contained cash and personal papers.

She was left shaken but unhurt after the incident at 2pm last Friday.

The thief is described as white 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins tall, with shaven hair. He was wearing a red fleece, blue jeans and trainers.

Sgt Jim Winward, of Astley Bridge police, said: "At that time of the day, with the location and the bright red fleece, somebody must have seen something."

Police are appealing for witnesses to contact Astley Bridge police on 0161 856 5740, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.