ROBBERS snatched a shopping bag from an 82-year-old woman.

The victim was walking along Barkerhouse Road, Nelson at about 10.15am on Wednesday with her husband when she was approached from behind by a man.

The robber snatched a bag from the woman, who had just left the post office, and ran off towards Smith Street.

The woman was left shaken but uninjured.

The robber escaped with the green and blue bag which contained £497 cash.

He was described as white, wearing a dark baseball cap and dark clothing.

Police believe a second man, described as 5ft 4ins tall and wearing a hooded top, may have been involved.

Karen Nuttall, street crime co-ordinator said: "Now that the weather has turned slightly colder more people are wearing coats and jackets and if they can keep valuables hidden away in pockets or under clothing it makes them less of a target."

Anyone with information should call police on 01282 472258 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.