POLICE are hunting a man who snatched a bag from an 89-year-old Southampton pensioner as she walked home from church.

The thug pounced as his frail victim walked through an underpass in Bitterne precinct at about 11.50am on Sunday.

A police spokesman said the thief dashed up behind the woman, grabbed her handbag and ran off without saying a word.

It is understood the victim, who has not been named, was not injured and tried to go after him.

Police are hunting a white man aged 25 to 27, about 5ft 7in tall. At the time of the theft, he wore dark trousers and a suit jacket.

Anyone with information should call Bitterne crimedesk on 0845 045 4545.