A WOMAN was hit in the face by a robber as she walked through an alleyway in Blandford after dark.

The victim, a local woman in her 40s, suffered several minor cuts during the attack, which took place around 7pm on Thursday, November 26, in an alleyway linking Salisbury Road to Barnes Close.

Detectives, who have launched an attempted robbery investigation, released details at the weekend.

Police say the woman was approached by an unknown man who demanded money, before hitting her and running away into Barnes Close.

No money was stolen during the attempted robbery.

Detective Constable Sean Garrett, of Weymouth CID, said: “We have already carried out a number of enquiries in relation to this incident, including CCTV and house-to-house visits.

"I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the relevant time and either saw or heard anything suspicious to please contact me.

"I would also like residents and local motorists to check footage from their home CCTV systems and dash cams and to call Dorset Police if they find anything that may be relevant to my investigation."

Meanwhile, North Dorset Inspector Simon Perry said: "Local officers from the neighbourhood policing team will be continuing with their regular patrols and can be approached with any community concerns."

Police describe the suspect as white, aged in his early 20s, around five feet six inches tall, with stubble on his face. He was wearing a black hooded top.