Police continue to scour CCTV in an effort to identify a suspect for the violent mugging of a 79-year-old woman in Ipswich.

Ipswich robbery - CCTV from Suffolk Police on Vimeo.

The robbery was condemned by local leaders and detectives as a ‘horrific attack’, carried out by a ‘pathetic coward’ in Victoria Street on Sunday night.

Footage from a private CCTV camera shows the victim dragged to the ground by a male in dark clothing, who then wrenched her handbag away and ran off towards London Road.

Last night, police said they were studying footage from cameras located nearby – trying to find the person responsible.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Power said: “The victim was returning to her car at the far end of Victoria Street, parked near the cobbled area and social club.

“An individual circled the car and engaged in a violent struggle, dragging her a few yards, before running off with her handbag.

“She was left bruised and shaken, but is otherwise OK.”

The victim’s handbag contained bank cards, which have since been cancelled, and personal details.

Police are keen to speak to three people seen crossing the road seconds after the attack, which happened at about 7.35pm.

There is no suggestion they were involved in the robbery, but they may have useful information.

Detective Chief Superintendent Simon Parkes also made an online appeal, labelling the person responsible a ‘pathetic coward’.

DCI Power added: “Robbery is a very serious crime. However, there is nothing to suggest it’s common to that area.

“This happened relatively early in the evening but, with the nights drawing in, I’d advise people to be wary of their surroundings.”

In September, a group formed to tackle negative perceptions of the Jubilee Park area.

Its formation was encouraged by local borough councillors – one of whom, Colin Kreidewolf said: “This was a horrific attack on a vulnerable lady at a relatively early time in the evening, when people should be free to go safely about their business.

“Hopefully, someone witnessed it and will come forward.

“The area has its problems, but there are people making an effort to come to terms with them.”

Councillor Julian Gibbs told this paper he was shocked by the robbery, adding: “It is totally unacceptable for this woman to be attacked and robbed like this.”

To help police, call South CID on 101, quoting 71642/17.