At first glance, Denise Emery and Ruth Garner looked like easy targets for the mugger.

But Denise, 43, who suffers from chronic arthritis, and Ruth, a 74-year-old, fought back when they were attacked.

Denise was determined not to let go of her bag, which contained her £300 monthly disability allowance.

After hitting him in the face she was dragged along the pavement for her troubles.

Ruth picked up her friend's stick, and began hitting their assailant on the back and head.

The thug finally wrestled the bag from Denise's grasp and fled with the cash, leaving her battered and bruised.

But this distressing incident has a positive twist. Hove Lions heard of the attack and donated £100 to Denise. The rest is covered by insurance.

Hopefully, the mugger will today be nursing a few bruises himself, and will soon be able to reflect on his actions from the comfort of a prison cell.