A WOMAN from Burnley was knocked over as a thief snatched her handbag.

The 58-year-old was walking home from work in Colne Road near the entrance to Thompson Park, when the thief approached from behind at 5.50pm yesterday.

He escaped on foot through the park.

The black leatherette handbag, decorated with patchwork fabric, contained £36, an Abbey National card and a gas card.

Det Sgt Steve Mounsey said: "She was shaken but uninjured."

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