Ashington Woman Robbed And Beaten

A woman hurt during a robbery has agreed to release a photograph of her injuries to help find her attacker.

Around 11pm on Sunday August 25, 63-year-old local woman Marilyn Massie, who has terminal cancer, was walking along Chestnut Street in Ashington when she was approached by a young man riding a bike who assaulted her and stole her handbag. 

She suffered an injury to her wrist and nose and was taken to Wansbeck Hospital for treatment before being discharged. 

The thief is described as in his late teens or early 20s, with dark hair and a slim build. 

Detective Sergeant Tracey Moore said: "This was a callous and cowardly attack on a vulnerable woman. "The victim was approached from behind and sustained a broken wrist and nose after being pushed face first to the ground during the robbery. She also has extensive facial cuts and bruising and required stitches to her lip. "We are determined to bring her attacker to justice and I hope that anyone with information about the robbery will do the right thing and pick up the phone." 

Her attacker rode off with her handbag containing a small amount of cash in a red purse and a mobile phone.

The handbag is mink coloured and suede textured with double shoulder straps and a brass clasp. 

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact police on the 101 non-emergency number. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.