TWO muggers threw a corrosive liquid in the face of a terrified woman and ran off with her handbag.

The 57-year-old victim was walking down an alley by The Rise, near Snaresbrook tube station, at 4.45pm on Thursday when she heard shouting.

She therefore turned around and was approached by two men of Eastern European appearance, one of whom threw the substance in her face.

They then fled the scene with her handbag and jumped into a small silver car parked nearby.

The victim suffered some irritation and reddening to her face and has been treated by her GP. It is still not known what the substance was.

Anyone with information should call Ilford Police on 8345 2624.