A student was attacked by a pair of teenage girls who tried to steal her mobile phone and handbag.

The 26-year-old South Korean victim was attacked while walking in Lewes Road, close to Gladstone Place, Brighton when she was approached by two girls aged about 16 who had got off a number 25 bus.

The offender tried to trick the victim into handing over her mobile phone but when they refused to do so they attacked her, tried to grab her handbag and then fled.

The victim was left shaken but unhurt during the incident at about 11.30pm on Friday 4 April.

The first teenager was white, about 5' 4" and of average build. She had shoulder length black hair and was wearing dark clothing and sunglasses.

The second teenager was white, about 5' 4" and of slightly chunky build. She had shoulder length blonde hair and was wearing dark clothing.

A 16-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery. She was questioned before being released on bail until 9 May while officers carry out further inquiries.

PC Matt Smith said: "There were a number of people in the area at the time, both at the Gladstone Pub and walking home and I'd like to speak to as many of them as I can.

"I believe the victim was targeted because the offenders thought they could take advantage of her for being foreign.

"Please contact me if you saw or heard any of what happened or recognise the description of the offenders."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 1721 of 4/4, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111