A woman foiled an attempt by a young knife-wielding cyclist to snatch her handbag in Didcot.

The 41-year old woman was walking along Vicarage Road at about 3pm on Sunday when a teenage boy came up behind her on a bicycle and grabbed her handbag.

She held on to the bag and he then pulled out a penknife and tried to cut the strap. When he was unsuccessful he pedalled off.

The offender is described as white and aged about 15, with a small face and a pale complexion. He was wearing a dark coloured hooded top.

Det Sgt Darren Cartwright said “This was a nasty incident and we would like to trace this individual as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact Det Sgt Darren Cartwright via the Thames Valley Police 24-hour enquiry line on 0845 8 505 505, or alternatively contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.