A BLIND woman was subjected to a "despicable attack" in broad daylight in Bournemouth this afternoon.

The victim, a woman aged in her 40s, was walking in Pilot Hight Road in West Howe shortly before 2.45pm when she heard someone behind her, possibly on a bicycle.

She was pushed over and dragged along the ground as the offender attempted to grab her handbag.

The victim was able to keep hold of her handbag and the offender made off.

Police say the handbag appears to have been cut with a knife or bladed article and the woman sustained a number of cuts and bruises.

She was taken to hospital for treatment.

Detective Constable Kevin Lloyd, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was a despicable attack on a blind woman in broad daylight by an offender believed to be in possession of a knife and we have launched a full investigation to identify the culprit.

“Our enquiries have included house to house, crime scene examinations and a review of any CCTV footage in the area.”

He urged anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen any suspicious activity in the area at the time to contact police.

Anyone with dashcam footage is also urged to come forward.

Detective Constable Kevin Lloyd added: “Local officers from the neighbourhood policing team can be approached by members of the community with any concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police quoting incident number 13:218. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.