Villagers defend pensioner from Rustington thief

The 80-year-old was walking down The Street, at around 2.20pm when the man took her handbag.

Passers-by tried to intervene and stop the thief but he escaped.

The pensioner’s bag was found not long after. However, her purse – which contained cash and bank cards – had been taken.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses to the crime.

The suspect is described as white, possibly in his 20s, approximately 6ft tall, slim build with short dark hair. He was wearing dark clothing.

Officers would also like to hear from anyone who attempted to assist the victim as well as the man who discovered her discarded bag.

Those with information should call police on 101, quoting serial 1002 of 1/11, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.