Woman has tooth knocked out during robbery

A woman had her tooth knocked out after she was robbed in a car park.

The 60-year-old was mugged just after she got off a bus at Rochdale Bus Station between 9.50pm and 10.05pm on Wednesday 3 July 2013.

After she'd gotten off the bus, she walked towards John Street via Baillie Street.

As the victim went into the car park at the rear of the Broadwater Centre on Smith Street, she was attacked from behind by a man who struck her in the face, knocking her to the ground and causing a tooth to be lost as she collided with the floor.

It is believed another offender acted as a lookout while his accomplice carried out the mugging, before the main offender stole the victim’s handbag and the duo ran off towards Broadwater Youth Club.

Police are now appealing to anyone who either witnessed the incident or has information about who may be responsible to come forward.

The first man is described as white, about 6ft tall, 18-20 years old, of a medium build and with short brown hair. He was wearing a dark tracksuit. The other man was of white, of a similar age, height and build and also wearing a dark tracksuit.

Detective Constable David Gill said: "This was a cowardly and despicable attack on a woman who was on her own and defenceless.

"We believe the two culprits were sat on a wall drinking at the junction of Smith Street and Molesworth Street just before the robbery, and may have seen this woman on her own and taken advantage in the cruellest possible way.

"Such cowardice should not go unpunished and for the victim's peace of mind we need to find her attackers and bring them to justice.

"I would appeal to anyone who either witnessed the incident or suspects they know who may be involved to come forward. If you have overheard these two men bragging about their antics, then please do the right thing and call us."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4052, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.