A 76-YEAR-OLD woman was robbed at knifepoint in Blackburn.

The woman was on her way to work at around 6am on Saturday when the man approached her from behind and asked for her bag.

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When she refused, he got out a penknife and cut the strap of her bag stealing £30 and a mobile phone.

Detectives believe the incident, which happened in Whalley New Road, could be linked to the robbery of Roe Lee Newsagents in the same road earlier this month.

A spokesman said the man left the scene towards Pearl Street.

He is described as white, 5ft 10in tall, of slim build and clean shaven. He was wearing a grey hooded jumper, dark grey tracksuit bottoms and a dark coloured scarf.

The incident at Roe Lee Newsagent happened at around 7.10am on February 3 when a man walked inside the store threatening the 47-year-old male shopkeeper.

He was carrying two knives and wearing a mask. The man made off with cigarettes, cash and three mobile phones Detectives are appealing for information following both offences.

Det Sgt Bryony Midgley, of Lancashire Police, said: “This was a shocking robbery which has left the victim understandably very shaken and upset.

“We are appealing for witnesses and would ask anyone with information which may assist our enquiries to contact police.

“We believe this incident was linked to a second crime committed earlier this month. Again, if you can help us or recognise the man involved, call immediately.”

Anyone with information about the newsagents robbery can contact police on 101 quoting crime reference ED1701809.

If you can help with our investigation into the robbery of the 76-year-old woman, please call 101 quoting crime reference ED1702266.

Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.