TWO laughing robbers stole loose change from a woman after pushing her into an alleyway and carrying out a 'heartless' attack.

The 50-year-old woman was left with bruising to her face after being knocked to the floor and kicked as she lay on the ground.

The woman had been shopping in the Intack Mini Market in Accrington Road, Blackburn, and was holding a carrier bag when she was confronted by two men standing on a nearby corner at about 6.15pm on Wednesday.

One of the men grabbed her from behind and bundled her into the alleyway at the back of the shop before pushing her to the floor. While she was on the floor, she was kicked in the legs and back.

Both men were laughing as they pulled the carrier bag from her hands and rifled through her coat pockets for loose coins.

They then ran off down the alleyway.

Police said the woman has been left shocked and shaken by her ordeal and is extremely sore. She also has bruising to her face where she was struck.

The robbers are described as being quite slim, with one being taller than the other. They were wearing dark clothing.

Detective Sergeant Mark Winstanley, of Blackburn CID, said: “This was a heartless attack on a defenceless woman. The victim was a local lady going about her normal daily business.

“The fact that these two offenders were laughing throughout the attack gives some indication of the kind of people who were responsible.

“We would urge anyone who could assist this enquiry to come forward as soon as possible. The robbery happened at a time in the evening when it was relatively busy and we would hope someone has some information.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Blackburn CID on 01254 353561, the main switchboard number on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.