Police in Fife are appealing for witnesses following an attempted handbag snatch and assault in Dunfermline on Wednesday night.
The incident happened at around 8:20pm in Skibo Court near its junction with New Row when an unknown male approached a 55-year-old woman and lunged for her handbag.
The woman resisted and in the ensuing struggle fell to the ground resulting in an injury to her shoulder.
She managed to hold onto her property forcing the suspect to flee the scene empty handed.
He was last seen running into Skibo Court before being lost from sight.
The woman was taken to Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy and has since been discharged.
Detective Inspector Des FitzGerald of Fife CID said: “This was a frightening experience for someone to go through and today I’m urging anyone who knows anything about this crime to contact the police.
“I’m particularly keen to hear from anyone who saw a man matching the description in the Skibo Court or New Row area at around the time of this offence. It happened to be snowing on that night and, as we have not had much snow in the area, I’m hopeful that anyone who did see the suspect will remember him.
“Local officers are carrying out various lines of inquiry in an effort to trace the suspect as quickly as possible.
“In the meantime, and to offer reassurance to the public, there will be high visibility patrols in the area.”
Local officers are carrying out various lines of inquiry in an effort to trace the suspect as quickly as possible and are now appealing for the assistance of the public.
The man is described as white, in his 20’s, slim build, straggly hair and wearing light coloured jeans, a dark hooded top and Nike trainers. He spoke with a local accent.
Those with information are asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.