A WOMAN was chased by a man with a machete who demanded her handbag.

A second woman was also chased by the same man, police believe.

The two incidents, which happened at around noon on Monday, November 14, are being linked.

A police spokeswoman said the first happened on Grey Street in Burnley when a man on a motorbike chased after a 30-year old woman, threatened her with a weapon, described as a machete, and demanded her handbag.

She dropped the bag and fled the scene unhurt.

The suspect was described as white, wearing a helmet, a bright green jacket or high visibility jacket, approximately 5ft 2" and of slim build. He was riding a small motorbike.

The second incident occurred nearby when a another woman was chased by the same suspect who then fled the area.

He was described as wearing black trousers or jeans, a black coat with a high visibility jacket worn over the top and a blue and silver helmet.

PC Kieron Passmore said: “These must have been terrifying incidents for the women involved and it is fortunate that no-one was hurt.

“Both incidents occurred in the same area at similar times. It was the middle of the day in a built up area and it is possible that somebody has seen the incidents or seen the suspect in the area at the time.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log number 0617 of November 14 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers.org.