Cycling mugger strikes in Winchester (From Hampshire Chronicle)

Cycling mugger strikes in Winchester

9:01am Tuesday 12th June 2012 in News By Andrew Napier

A MUGGER on a bike struck on a Winchester estate targeting a woman walking her dog.

The 53-year-old victim was on the Black Alley behind Longfield Road, Winnall, when the cyclist approached.

As he passed he grabbed a bag containing a purse that the woman was carrying over her right wrist. She was pulled over but refused to let go and the attacker peddled away.

The attack happened between 7.45-8am yesterday morning.

Sgt Stuart Gilmour, of Winchester police, said today: “She was physically pulled to the ground. There were no injuries but she was shaken.

“We are not sure if this (mugging) was opportunist or planned,” he added.

Her description of the mugger is sketchy. She thinks he was a white male but cannot be sure, of proportionate build, wearing a dark hoodie and dark trousers. He was riding a street possibly racing-style bike, dark in colour.

Anyone with information should call PC Glen Willis-Long, at Winchester Police Station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0845 555111.

Sgt Gilmour added: “It is a well-used path and we think there would have been other dog walkers on it although because of the weather not as many as usual.”