A THUG on a bicycle who floored a woman while attempting to snatch her handbag in York is being hunted by police.

The 42-year-old victim was approached from behind as she crossed The Avenue, near the bingo hall in the Bootham area of the city at 9.15pm on Sunday.

The robber failed to wrestle the bag from her grasp, but during the struggle pulled her to the ground. She was treated at York Hospital for a cut to her head and severe bruising to her hands and feet.

DC Jennifer Cartwright, of York CID, said: “This area of York was quite busy at the time of the attempted robbery and it was still light. I am hoping somebody noticed a man on a pedal cycle, or someone may have seen the victim who was wearing a very distinctive wide-rimmed beige coloured hat at the time of the attempted robbery.

“This has been a very traumatic experience for the lady who has been left deeply shocked.”

Anyone with any information should phone North Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060247.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be phoned anonymously on 0800 555 111.