POLICE are hunting a man who pushed a woman over and stole her purse.

Officers have this morning released details of the incident, which took place at around 11am on Sunday, May 26, at Bourne Valley Nature Reserve.

The victim was walking from Alder Hills to South Park Road when she was approached from behind by a man on a silver BMX bicycle.

The offender then pushed her over and the victim's purse fell to the floor; he then picked up the purse and cycled away.

The victim suffered a twisted ankle in the incident.

PC Chris Maidment, of Poole Police, said: “As this incident took place in broad daylight, I am appealing for anyone who saw what happened or has any information that can assist the investigation to come forward.

“I am particularly keen to speak with witnesses who may have seen a man riding a silver BMX bicycle in the Alder Hills area in Poole at around 11am.”

He is described as white and was wearing a light blue hoodie, dark tracksuit bottoms and dark trainers.

Anyone who can help should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 25:206.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111, where mobile phone tariffs may apply.