A KNIFE-wielding robber attempted to snatch a bag from a woman in a block of St Albans flats. The incident took place at 4.45pm on Friday August 21 at Thirlestane in Lemsford Road, when the victim was in the communal area of the block of flats. A man who

A KNIFE-wielding robber attempted to snatch a bag from a woman in a block of St Albans flats.

The incident took place at 4.45pm on Friday August 21 at Thirlestane in Lemsford Road, when the victim was in the communal area of the block of flats.

A man who was standing at the doorway of the communal area asked her for the time and then threatened her with a knife he pulled from his pocket, demanding she hand over her bag.

When she refused, the offender left the scene and ran off in an unknown direction.

The offender was as a white man, in his late teens, slim build, about 5ft 5ins tall. He was clean shaven, with a thin face and was reported to have a local accent. At the time of the offence he was wearing a black hooded top, which was covering his head.

Investigating officer PC Ian Clements said: "Incidents of this nature are thankfully rare in Hertfordshire.

"I would like to speak to anyone who may have information about this incident or saw the person described either before or after the incident occurred.

"If you recognise the man described I would also ask that you come forward."

Anyone with information can contact PC Clements via the non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222 citing crime reference number F1/09/3744. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.