Detectives have condemned a “vicious and cowardly” street mugger who robbed a middle-aged woman of her ice skating boots after hitting her on the head with a brick.

The 53-year-old victim was returning from a trip to Bradford ice rink with friends when she was attacked.

The woman was walking up Leeds Road, near to the junction with Amberley Street, at Bradford Moor.

She became aware she was being followed and, as she approached the junction, she was attacked from behind.

The robber hit her on the head with a brick, or similar object, and knocked her to the ground. The suspect grabbed her shoulder bag and a trolley bag she had been pushing and fled.

The victim was left with a cut to her head and needed hospital treatment.

Items stolen included a pair of white figure skates and a 1960s-style German camera.

Officers are investigating the robbery and assault at about 8.35pm on Tuesday and would like to speak to witnesses or anyone who has information.

The suspect was a man aged between 16 and 24. He was slim and was wearing a dark hooded top.

Detective Inspector Mark Long said: “The ice skates and camera are distinctive and we would ask anyone who is offered them, or finds them, or witnesses to the offence, to contact us at Bradford South CID on 0845 6060606. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”