A woman who was heading towards a railway station had to fight off a robber trying to steal her handbag in what police have described as a “terrifying experience” for the victim.

Police are appealing for information about the attempted robbery, which took place in Station Road, Cambridge, at about 11pm on Thursday, November 7.

The victim, who is from Royston, was heading towards the railway station and was approaching the junction with Tenison Road when she saw five men in their early 20s standing on the corner.

One of them approached her and attempted to grab her handbag but she held on and broke free. The attacker then caught her again and pushed her to the ground but she held onto the handbag and the men made off.

The victim suffered slight injuries and was very shaken by what happened.

The main offender is described as black, 18 to 23, well-built, about six foot, clean shaven, with a London accent. He was wearing a black tracksuit and light grey t-shirt.

The others in the group were only described as two white men wearing dark tracksuits who were smaller than the main offender and two black men.

DC Cheryl Harris said: “This was a terrifying experience for the victim who bravely held onto her handbag. I would appeal to anyone who was in the area to consider whether they saw anything significant.

“Anyone with information should not hesitate to get in touch.”

Anyone with information should contact DC Harris on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.