A DISABLED pensioner is in hospital after four youths snatched her handbag.

The 69-year-old victim had just collected her pension from the Post Office in Swaythling, when the hooded gang approached her as she returned to her mobility scooter.

The snatched her handbag from her shoulder before running off towards Portswood.

She went into shock and only called the police after she had returned home.

When officers arrived the victim fell ill and an ambulance was called to take her to Southampton General Hospital.

The stolen bag was a black leather handbag measuring approximately six to eight inches wide, 18 inches deep with a 10 inch strap and two zips on the front.

It contained £130 cash, a red angina spray, an electric key and a blue gas card which both have £10 credit, a Morrison’s reward card with £9 of stamps and various personal letters.

The victim is however most upset by the loss of a picture of her late husband.

A Post Office pension card, O2 swipe card and a yellow disabled registration card were also in the bag.

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The four offenders are described as aged 14 to 15 years old, possibly younger, with one wearing a white hooded top, one a grey hooded top and two navy or black hooded tops. They were all about 5ft 3 inches tall.

The incident happened around 9.30am this morning.

PC Alex Bowman of Portswood police station, said: “This is a despicable crime carried out against a vulnerable disabled woman.

“I would urge anyone with any information, no matter how inconsequential it may seem, to come forward and help us in our attempt to return these items including precious photographs, to the victim and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Alex Bowman on 101. Alternatively, call the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.