A WOMAN tried in vain to hold on to her handbag while a robber hit her in the face as she was mugged in Leytonstone yesterday (Tuesday).

The crook snatched the 38-year-old's bag while she was walking along Pastures Path.

After the attack he ran off along Davies Lane towards Leytonstone High Road before getting on a bike and cycling towards Wanstead Flats.

Police describe the robber as a black man, aged between 18 and 20, 5ft 9ins tall, and wearing a dark blue hooded coat with a green hat underneath.

Anyone with information about the mugging, which happened at 7.50am, should call Leytonstone Safer Neighbourhood Team on 020 8721 5008 and 07766442713 or to remain anonymous call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.