A MAN HUNT has been launched after a woman was mugged and pushed to the ground while waiting for a bus.

Detectives said the 49-year-old victim was waiting at a bus stop in King Street, Blackburn, when a man approached her and pretended to wait for a bus.

He is then said to have grabbed her handbag and a tug-of-war ensued. Police said during the struggle the handbag fell to the ground and its contents scattered. The attacker is said to have pushed the woman to the floor, before grabbing her purse and running off in the direction of National Tyres and Autocare.

No arrest has been made.

The woman suffered minor injuries during the incident which happened at 6.15pm yesterday Police have appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Melissa Kelly said: "This was a frightening attack for the victim and is is fortunate she has not been more seriously injured. I would appeal for any witnesses or anyone who recognises the man from the description to come forward."

The suspect is described as a white man in his mid 20s, between 5ft 7ins and 5ft 8 tall, of stocky build and with short dirty blonde hair. The man, who spoke with a local accent, was wearing a grey hoody, grey trousers with two blue lines down them and grey trainers. He had his hood up at the time of the robbery.

Any witnesses are asked to call Detective Constable Emma Oldham on 101, quoting log 1235 of May 13. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.