A thug allegedly attempted to snatch a pensioner's handbag while she was shopping in Rawtenstall town centre.
Police said good samaritans gave chase to an alleged offender and held him until police arrived at the scene.
The incident happened in Kay Street at around 11.45am on Wednesday.
Detective sergeant Phil Turner, of Rawtenstall CID, said: "An elderly woman was approached by a male who attempted to snatch her handbag.
"He was unsuccessful and made off from the scene. He was chased a short distance by members of the public.
"A local shop keeper ran to the police station and told the inquiry desk what had happened and an arrest was made."
A 32-year-old local man has been arrested and was being quizzed by detectives today.
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