A 60-YEAR-OLD woman fought off an attacker trying to steal her handbag in Taunton.

Police say the victim was walking along College Way, next to a park off Burch's Close, at around 2.10pm on Monday, when a man approached her from behind and tried to grab her handbag.

However, she managed to hold onto it and the man ran off.

Detective Constable Beth Morgan, of Taunton CID, said: “The victim describes the man as wearing a grey hooded top with the hood up and light blue jeans.

“We've also had reports of a man matching the same description knocking on doors in the same area and asking for money. These incidents could be linked.

“We have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with this offence and he has been released on bail while we carry out further enquiries.”

Anybody with information should call DC Morgan, via the 24-hour police enquiry centre on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.