A WOMAN in her 70s was mugged by thugs in Southend town centre in broad daylight on Friday.

The victim was walking from Sainsbury’s in London Road to the narrow path between the Odeon and the Victoria shopping centre.

As she was in there, about 11am, she was approached by two men who pushed her against the wall and stole her purse containing cash and her bank cards.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, or for anyone who saw the two men follow her down London Road.

Det Con Dave Thompson, from Southend CID, said: “The victim has been left very shaken by this appalling action. I would urge anyone who was in the relevant area at the time that this occurred and who thinks they have information to get in touch.

"These men should not be able to get away with this. They have targeted a defenceless elderly woman for the sake of £40 in cash. If anyone knows who they are I would ask them to call me on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."