POLICE are anxious to trace a robbery victim in her 50s who was attacked in Newton Abbot’s Wolborough Street earlier this week.

A 17-year-old youth was detained afterwards by a member of the public who alerted police about the mystery woman’s ordeal.

It’s understood her handbag was snatched from her by a youth on Tuesday at about 5.20pm.

He is reckoned to have left on foot, only to be detained nearby by the man who contacted officers about the crime.

Police say they have not been able to trace the victim who was seen to retrieve her bag from the ground and then leave the scene of the robbery.

She is described as a white female, aged about 50, and of slim build.

She had shoulder length auburn hair and was carrying a large rectangular bag with a shoulder strap.

This afternoon (March 14) police appealed to her to come forward so they can further their inquiries.

The 17-year-old suspect, who cannot be named, was quizzed and later released under investigation pending further inquiries.

Anyone who witnessed the drama, or who might have information about it, can contact police by ringing 101 and quoting crime reference CR/022220/19.