Woman attacked in centre of Brighton

A woman was attacked in the centre of Brighton at the weekend by a man who tried to snatch her bag.

The victim and the attacker appeared to know each other, according to Sussex Police.

The force said: “Police are appealing for witnesses to an attack in Brighton in the early hours of Saturday morning (1 March).

“The victim was walking at the southern end of Dyke Road near the cemetery when she was attacked by a man.

“The man tried to take the victim’s bag but a member of the public helped her and the attacker fled.

“The offender was white with tanned skin, 5ft 9in to 5ft 10in and of average build. He had dark hair and was wearing dark clothing.”

Detective Constable Tom Coll said: “This was an incident involving two people who know each other but the motive is still unclear.

“It appears there were lots of people around who saw what was happening and may have misunderstood the situation.

“I’m keen to speak to anyone who saw the argument taking place or saw the couple in street before the incident took place.”

A 36-year-old man from Hove has been arrested on suspicion of attempted robbery. He was questioned before being released on bail.

Anyone with information is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.