Woman, 80, robbed by 'coward' in Irvine
Police have branded a thief who attacked an 80-year-old woman before stealing her handbag with a four-figure sum of cash inside as "a coward".
The woman was attacked from behind in High Street, Irvine, near the Spar Store, at 13:35 on Wednesday.
The man pushed her to the ground and stole her handbag before running off in the direction of East Road car park.
The woman suffered a head injury and was detained overnight in hospital. Police have appealed for witnesses.
The suspect is described as white, aged between 20 and 24 years old and about 5ft 2in tall.
At the time, he was wearing a dark hooded top.
Det Con Michael Grant, of Police Scotland, said: "I am truly disgusted at the actions of this pathetic individual who targeted a vulnerable member of our society. He can only be described as a coward.
"The victim has sustained a slight head injury but the emotional and mental trauma is far worse. It is imperative that we catch this man, who obviously preys on those who can't defend themselves.
"I would urge anyone who was in the area of High Street, Irvine, around 13:35 on Wednesday and saw this attack, or has any information whatsoever, to come forward."
The woman's handbag was recovered, minus the four-figure sum of cash, in the gents toilets of the car park.
Det Con Grant added: "I would also appeal to motorists who were in the car park at East Road and may have seen the suspect running into the gents toilets to get in touch."