Plea after elderly woman robbed at bus stop in Walkden

Officers said the victim was a woman in her late 70s who was waiting at a bus stop on Worsley Road North, near the junction with Grosvenor Road at around 9.20am on December 30.

They said a man appeared to notice her and the bags she had placed behind her on the bus stop seat, before returning a short time later in what officers believe was a targeted attack.

Police said he approached the victim from behind the bus stop, outside her line of sight and attempted to steal her handbag.

They said the victim turned around and held onto the bag, but the man repeatedly pulled at it with force, before he reached inside, stole her purse and fled down Alexandra Road.

They have described the purse as mustard-coloured, made of leather and said it contained bank cards, loyalty cards, cash and a silver good luck charm of sentimental value.

They said the victim sustained a back injury as a result of the attack.

Police released images of a man they believe can assist their investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

They’ve asked anyone with information about the incident to contact them on 101, quoting log 2156 of 30/12/2025 or crime reference CRI/06FF/0034368/25.

Information can also be shared using GMP’s ‘report’ tool or LiveChat function on our website – www.gmp.police.uk

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity – Crimestoppers – anonymously on 0800 555 111.