A disabled woman from Tyldesley was punched in the head during an attempted robbery on Tuesday, police have reported.
The woman in her 30s, who has cerebral palsy and uses an electric wheelchair, had been out shopping in Tyldesley Town Centre. She was on the field at Shakerley Estate when she was approached by a man who tried to snatch her handbag.
A struggle ensued, at which point, the man viciously punched the woman on the back of her head, causing her to scream. The man then fled in the direction of Tyldesley Town Centre.
The man is described as white aged between 40 and 50-years-old, of slim build and with short grey hair. He had a goatee beard, and was wearing a yellow coat.
Detective Constable Chris Waddicar, from GMP’s Leigh Criminal Investigation Department, said: “I am shocked by the brutality of this attack, on an innocent and defenceless woman.
“Fortunately, the man was unable to get away with the woman’s handbag but she has been left shaken and terrified.
“We are appealing for members of the public who saw anyone matching the description of the man, or those who witnessed this incident, to please get in touch.”
Anyone with any information should call police on 0161 856 7292 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
