UPDATE: Police patrols stepped up after woman, 81, is mugged

The pensioner was targeted as she walked along a woodland path from Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre to the Beckton estate, Waterthorpe, last Friday afternoon.

Her handbag was stolen in the incident, but South Yorkshire Police said the OAP was unharmed.

Police patrols have now been stepped up.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "On Friday lunchtime, at around 12.45pm, an 81-year-old lady was walking the woodland path from Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre to the Beckton estate.

"She was approached by a male who grabbed her handbag from her. No violence was offered and the lady sustained no injuries but we would encourage anyone who may know anything about this, or who may have seen something suspicious around that time, to contact us."

Inspector Jason Booth added: "We are increasing patrols around the pathways to the back of Beckton after Friday's incident, where someone had a bag snatched.

"We don't have any valuable description at this time due to the crime happening so fast.

"As always if you have information or see something suspicious please call us."

Call South Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.