A WOMAN fought off a thug who tried to steal her bag.

The woman was walking along an alleyway between Cranbury Road and Desborough Road, Eastleigh, on Saturday when she was approached from behind. 

An unknown man attempted to grab her handbag, but she refused to let him take it. 

After a struggle, the man fled the scene having failed to take any possessions. 

The incident took place between 8pm and 8.18pm.

A hunt for witnesses has now been launched to try and identify the man involved.

He is described as mixed-race, aged 16 - 20 years-old, between 5ft 3ins and 5ft 7ins, with black afro hair.

He was dressed in all black clothing and wearing a black snood.

A police spokesperson said: "Were you in the area at the time? Did you see what happened?

"Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 101, quoting 44210046314.

"Alternatively, you can independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."