A COUPLE were mugged in front of their two-year-old daughter as they walked home from South Woodford Station on Friday night.

The pair were pushing the youngster’s buggy along Clarendon Road at 9.17pm when the two attackers crept up behind them.

One of the muggers grabbed the girl’s 48-year-old father around the throat and demanded he hand over his wallet while the other tried to snatch the mother's handbag.

The 36 year-old woman was dragged to the ground during the struggle before the pair ran off with the wallet and the handbag.

Both muggers were described as being between 18 and 25 years old, and wearing dark clothing.

Detective Constable Mason Mills of Ilford police said he believed that the family may have been followed from the station by the two men.

He added: “This was a particularly cowardly attack on a couple who were just out for a walk with their young daughter.

“To target parents in front of their child is very unusual, and it only makes you feel worse for the people involved.

“Luckily these people did not suffer serious injury during the incident, but it is the psychological impact that can have the biggest effect on people.

“I would call on the community to come forward with any information they may have to help us with the investigation.”

The attackers are both believed to be between 18 and 25 years old and black. Both were wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information should call DC Joanne Cairns on 8345 2610 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111