SOUTHBOURNE residents have reacted with shock and disgust after two women in their seventies were robbed in the street.

As reported yesterday, one of the women was walking along Southbourne Road on Friday afternoon when a young man came running up behind her and pulled her handbag from her, causing her to fall. He then ran off towards Tuckton.

The stolen bag, which has an African design, contained a mobile phone, a purse and house keys.

The offender was described as white, possibly in his late teens, about five feet six inches tall and of slim build. He has dark brown scruffy hair and was wearing dark clothing – including a black top with a red or grey stripe across it.

Before the robbery the offender was seen sitting on a bench nearby with a woman, who was older and taller than him. She has been described as white, of slim build and with dark shoulder-length hair. She was wearing dark clothing, including a coat.

The second robbery happened at around 12.10pm on Sunday in Stourwood Avenue. A local woman was approached from behind by a man and pushed into a vehicle before her brown handbag – which contained cash and a mobile phone – was stolen. The man then ran off toward the seafront.

The victim suffered a head injury during the robbery.

The offender had a similar description to the first and wore a dark jacket and dark jeans.

Police believe the robberies could be linked.

Jeannie Scott and Sally James, who live in the same block of flats as the second victim, said she was “shaken up” by her ordeal.

“The man knocked her over and she hit her head on a car, and then he took her handbag,” Jeannie said.

“We’re more on our guard now for muggers,” Sally added.

Vivian Barrett, a Christchurch resident who was visiting Southbourne, said: “It’s very frightening, and during the day as well. I’ve always felt safe in Southbourne, but this is dreadful.”

Chris Mayne, a councillor for West Southbourne, said he was “absolutely disgusted” by the robberies.

“One of them happened in the road where I live.

“It’s absolutely appalling for someone to behave like that against elderly women - it’s completely out of order, as is any type of violence.

“The sooner police find those involved the better.”