Pensioner Robbed Of Life Savings In Swinton

24 December 2012, 08:14 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

A pensioner's been robbed of a "substantial amount'' of her life savings after being mugged on her way home from a casino in Swinton.

The 86-year-old woman kept a large amount of her money in her handbag because she was afraid of being burgled at Christmas.

She had her bag snatched in Swinton at 2.35am on Sunday (23rd December).

Greater Manchester Police said she had won a "relatively large amount of money'' at the Genting Salford Casino, but the winnings were also in her white satchel handbag which was stolen.

The robbery occurred shortly after she got out of a taxi in Grosvenor Street.

The suspect, described as a young man, about 5ft 4ins and skinny, snatched the woman's bag from her shoulder before running off towards Worsley Street.

He was wearing a black hooded jacket with the hood up, and black trousers.

Pc Michelle Ingham of Greater Manchester Police said:
"This was a particularly cruel robbery on a vulnerable, lone, elderly woman who had been enjoying a night out at the casino and was returning home with a large amount of cash in her handbag.

She kept her life savings with her because she was afraid her home would be burgled while she was out, but sadly has fallen victim to just such a crime by a despicable and callous thief.

We desperately want to get this woman her money back so we are appealing to anyone who has information to come forward. I would appeal to anyone who either witnessed what happened or suspects who may be involved to call us immediately.''

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 5232 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.