POLICE are hunting two hooded teenagers after an 81-year-old woman was injured during an attempted robbery.

The elderly victim was taken to hospital with a broken elbow and a suspected broken collarbone after the teenagers tried to snatch her handbag.

She managed to cling on to the bag but was pulled to the ground in what police are describing as a “despicable” crime.

The woman was walking past water meadows in Fordingbridge when she was approached from behind.

Following the incident the two teenagers ran off along a path leading to Cottage Mews. Their victim was taken to Salisbury Hospital for treatment to her injuries, which included cuts to her arms, knees and body.

DC Lisa Poole said: “This is a despicable crime in which the offenders targeted a vulnerable elderly lady as she walked home.

“We must find the people responsible and bring them to justice. I’d like to speak to anyone who saw what happened, in particular two young girls who left the water meadows just before the incident. It’s possible that these girls, one of whom was talking on her mobile phone, may have seen the offenders.”

The woman was using a path between Green Lane and Normandy Way on Wednesday when the teenagers struck.

They are described as white, aged 16-17, slim, and about 5ft 6in. They were wearing dark clothing with hoods pulled up over their faces.

• Ring DC Poole at Lyndhurst police station on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.