A MUGGER targeted an elderly woman in Redbourn on Thursday night, leaving her with a fractured wrist. The victim had been dropped off in Long Cutt at about 9.40pm when she was pushed in the back by her attacked and her handbag was stolen. The woman was ta

A MUGGER targeted an elderly woman in Redbourn on Thursday night, leaving her with a fractured wrist.

The victim had been dropped off in Long Cutt at about 9.40pm when she was pushed in the back by her attacked and her handbag was stolen.

The woman was taken to hospital with a fractured wrist following the incident in which her handbag containing a cash card and a house key was stolen.

The mugger is believed to have withdrawn some money with the woman's cash card but other attempted transactions were declined

Neighbourhood Sergeant Lewis Ducket said: "This was a frightening, callous attack on an elderly and vulnerable woman in a quiet residential street. This is very unusual for Redbourn and we are appealing for anyone who may have seen the incident or anyone acting suspiciously to contact us immediately. Were there any unusual vehicles parked in the street? Did you see anyone acting strangely?"

He added: "Any information may be useful in helping us catch this man. In the meantime, I would urge neighbours and family members to keep an eye on members of our elderly and vulnerable community."

Sgt Ducket said it was unclear how the offender got the woman's pin number and urged everyone to keep their codes safe and separate from their bank cards.

The mugger is described as a tall man with straight, short, dark-brown hair.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 01727 796086 or the non-emergency number on 0845 33 00 222, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.