An 87-year-old Oxford man was robbed as he made his way home in what police have described as a 'cowardly attack'.

The robbery happened just after midnight this morning as the elderly victim got off a 2A Oxford City bus near Uplands Road, on Banbury Road.

He was dragged to the ground from behind and his holdall was stolen.

Dick Evans, a case investigator with Oxford Robbery Team, said: "Even though the victim is 87-years-old he is still very active and had enjoyed an evening in the city.

"This was a cowardly attack on a lone elderly victim who was making his way home. The offender is described as a white teenager with dark hair."

"We believe that a member of the public actually witnessed this incident and went to the aid of the victim.

"He actually took the victim to his home address. However, the Good Samaritan left the scene without leaving his details.

"It is important that we trace this witness as he may be able to identify the offender. We are appealing to him to make contact with the police as a matter of urgency.

"Being 87 years of age this attack has left the victim very upset and shaken. Luckily he did not receive serious injuries."

The victim's bag was later found abandoned on the corner of Squitchey Lane. It is believed that the contents of the holdall were rifled through by the offender but nothing was stolen.

Police are waiting the results of forensic examination and the area is being trawled for any CCTV.

Anyone with information should call Dick Evans on 08458 505505 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.