A GRANDMOTHER was attacked on her own doorstep by a mugger who tried to steal her handbag. The 56-year-old woman was with her 12-year-old granddaughter when they were followed by a youth through the communal entrance of Tait Court in Alice Lane, just off

A GRANDMOTHER was attacked on her own doorstep by a mugger who tried to steal her handbag.

The 56-year-old woman was with her 12-year-old granddaughter when they were followed by a youth through the communal entrance of Tait Court in Alice Lane, just off St Stephen's Road, Bow at noon on Sunday.

The mugger pushed the woman into the wall before grabbing her bag and attempting to get out of the block.

But the woman grabbed her bag back as the robber tried to get out of the door and he ran off empty handed.

Police have described the suspect as an Asian boy aged 16-18, around 5ft 4ins tall with short black hair.

He was wearing dark trainers, black jeans and a dark grey, zip-up hooded top.

Officers are appealing for anyone with information to contact Det Sgt Ross Morrell in the robbery squad on 020 8217 3838 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Witnesses can also email towerhamletsrobberysquad@met.police.uk