AN 84-year-old woman was knocked to the floor for her pension in Burnley yesterday.

It happened around 10am as she walked along Temple Street after leaving Todmorden Road post office with her pension.

She had put the money safely in her purse in her pocket.

The lady was then attacked from behind and pushed to the floor by a man who fled with her money.

She was helped to her feet by passers-by. Detective Inspector Simon Cheyte from Burnley CID said: “This is shocking attack on a defenceless elderly lady in broad daylight and we need the public’s help to catch the person responsible.

“The victim has been left badly shaken with sores and bruises.”

The offender is described as white, aged 30-40 years old, 6ft tall and slim.

He had medium brown hair which was greying at the temple and was wearing a dark waist length jacket.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Burnley Police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.