A THIEF on a mountain bike knocked down a woman, stole her purse and mobile and then rode off.

The 52-year-old woman was outside Jenkin's fruit and vegetable shop in George Street, Hove, when incident happened.

The theif deliberately collided with the woman who dropped her possessions, which he then scooped up and rode off.

The incident, took place at around 4.45pm on Thursday (June 18), left the victim with injuries to her right arm and shoulder, which were treated at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton.

The robber is described as white, in his late 40s, 5'8", of stocky build with fair hair balding on top. He was wearing a shirt and light-coloured jeans.

Detective Constable Caroline Gridley, of Brighton CID, said: "It was a nice sunny day with plenty of people about.

"Hopefully someone will have seen what happened and police are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident or who may have other helpful information."

Witnesses are asked to email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or phone 101, quoting serial 1457 of June 18. Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers without having to leave their name on 0800 555 111.