A woman was grabbed by the throat by a man who then stole her purse on Brighton seafront.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the assault and robbery of a 20-year old woman who was attacked near the Queens Hotel in Kings Road, Brighton, on Monday, 16 February.

The victim was walking home when the attack took place at about 9.30pm.

The victim was approached by a man who attempted to engage her in conversation before grabbing her throat and pushing her against a wall.

He stole a purse from her bag and ran off in an easterly direction towards the pier.

The offender is described as white, aged in his mid-twenties, 6'2",  of muscular build and with blond hair with brown streaks and a swept-to-the-side style.

He was wearing a grey or black top, and grey trousers or jeans. 

Detective Constable Ed Downes said; "We are appealing for witnesses and are espcially keen to speak to a man who is believed to have walked past and spoken to the offender, which may well have stopped the situation escalating even further.

"The victim was left with red marks to her neck and was very shaken."

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call 101 quoting serial 1597 of 16/2. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Did you see what happened? Email Henry.Holloway@theargus.co.uk or call 01273 544545.